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Subject: RIBC 2015: Draft Rationale Collection Thread

Posted by: Guru - [330592710] Tue, Mar 17, 2015, 16:44

RIBC managers: Please post your rationales in this thread. Rationales are due on a two round lag (i.e., when you make you 3rd round pick, your 1st round rationale is due. You can post any rationale sooner than that if you wish.

Do not worry about placeholders or keeping things in the proper sequence. This is just a place to collect rationales, which I will then transfer over to the formal rationale thread in the proper sequence. This approach has worked well for the past several seasons, and I now have a somewhat automated method for making those transfers.

Remember that you should refrain from mentioning undrafted players. If you feel that your rationale requires that, then hold it back until the player has been drafted - unless the player mentioned is clearly undraftable this year.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Tue, Mar 17, 2015, 22:18

1.05 - Paul Goldschmidt (ARI) - 1B

There wasn't too much thought into this one, although I briefly considered Cabrera. Every single year, I try to select a player in the first round with little health concerns. Cabrera did get some bumps and bruises last year and has already played many years in MLB. Although he is an elite hitter, that knocked him out of the picture for me.

I think there was a consensus top 5 amongst experts and I just selected the one who was left over. I expect good power numbers, a high OBP and double digit steals. Should be a safe pick and that is what I'm looking for in the first round.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Tue, Mar 17, 2015, 22:33

2.12 - Michael Brantley (CLE) - OF

I had Ian Desmond in my queue ready to be picked. GONE! I hope KDogHall takes his mind-reading contraption off for future rounds...

I'm not sure if last year was a fluke but I felt he was the best option available. Last year is probably his upside and even if Brantley regresses a little, he'll still be a very good player for all my categories. He walked a lot last year and made great contact on the ball, good signs going forward. I should get good OBP and RBI opportunities with him hitting third in the lineup. He won't explode in home runs or stolen bases but should get me around 40 combined. Not my favorite pick but I'm warming up to it.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Tue, Mar 17, 2015, 23:09

1.10 Carlos Gomez OF Mil

What's not to like. Gomez has had two stellar years in a row, and I think he can get better, still only 29 years old.

Batting at the top of the order for the Brewers, he's not a top tiered RBI guy, but 80 is within reach. With excellent %'s and good run producers behind him, he has a chance to cross the plate 100 times, having scored 95 and 98 runs the past two years.

Throw in 30+ steals and we are talking 5 tool player

2.07 Nolan Arenado 3B Col

Nolan is a star in the making at just 24 years old, befitting by playing half his games in Coors field. In only 111 games last year he notched 18 HR's, 61 RBI's and scored 58 runs, with a sweet .828 OPS.

I'm counting on 100 RBI's, maybe 90 runs scored, and an uptick in the %'s

If he could only swipe a few bases

RJ
ID: 54219222
Tue, Mar 17, 2015, 23:43

1.02 Clayton Kershaw, SP, LAD
I saw him as providing the most overall stat value in that he almost never has a bad start and provides an anchor for my pitching ratios. He also has an improved defense behind so expecting another big year out of him. Plus he could be good trade bait later in the season if I'm lacking in points in a hitting category for instance.

filthy
ID: 4157202
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 01:17

1.01 Mike Trout, OF, LAA

Considered another draft spot selection for about a second. Mike Trout is too hard to resist. Perennial MVP candidate, fantasy stat sheet filler, and he's possibly just getting started!

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 12:49

Pick 9 - Just going with my usual strategy of getting closest to the top. You can never anticipate how folks will draft so this gives me more options from my rankings for round 1

1.09 Jose Bautista, OF, Tor Considered grabbing Tulo here. @JoeyBats19 is a solid fantasy producer who puts the ball in play, could easily hit triple digits in RBI and R with a strong Blue Jay lineup around him, and with a good eye and a quick bat should be able to solidify a good base for my team's OBP and SLG.

Evan
ID: 101522414
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 13:41

3.05 Starling Marte, OF, PIT

So far my team is set up with players who give me both HRs and SBs. With word that Marte will be hitting 5th in the Pirates lineup, I expect his SBs to go down but it will provide him more RBI opportunities. He is my most risky selection of the first 3 rounds but he has tremendous upside.

His strikeout rate was awful before the All-Star break last year (22.7%) and had .256 AVG/.324 OBP/.383 SLG). During the second half he was arguably the best hitter in baseball; .348/.408/.567. He made significantly more contact. Hopefully this 26 year old can make some serious strides this season and become a superstar.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 14:12

1.13 Rendon, Anthony, 2B/3B, WAS

With dual-eligibility at 2B/3B, Rendon should be a valuable fantasy contributor. He’s a solid hitter against both righties and lefties. I was counting on him being a 5-category player, but a minor Spring-Training knee injury might see a decrease in SBs. I considered Cano, Altuve, and King Felix at this slot, but decided to go with the upside of the youngster.

2.04, Jones, Adam, OF, BAL

If consistency were a category, Jones would be a round 1 pick. Having healthy players in the early picks is a key to staying in this league for 2016. He continues to pound the ball every year, and should provide about 30 HRs, 90 Rs, 100 RBIs, and 8-10 SBs. If he could just take more walks, he would be a 5-cat player in this league. His projected .315 OBP will be a drag on that category all year.

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 14:20

1.07 Jose Abreu

I had 2nd draft choice selection. Debated between 5th, 6th and 7th selection as I didn't see much difference between the players ranked there. Went with 7th hoping for slightly more choice in the 2nd round and Abreu was left for me.

Hoping for improvements from an impressive rookie campaign but he provided 1st round value last year and should at least replicate last years totals. Batting behind Eaton and Cabrera should provide plenty of RBI ops. If he led the league in RBI's and Slug nobody would be shocked - heres hoping.

2.10 Ryan Braun

Before thumb injury last year was crushing it. Healthy thumb and good lineup have me looking for 1st round value but obviously with injury risk.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 16:30

pick #3
I had the options 2-6 and 8-16 available. I wanted an earlier pick because this pick can be better planned. I like Stanton better than McCutchen and thought that with McCutchen being taken at #2 in most drafts I should have a shot at Stanton at #3.
I also thought of picking a bit later and taking a 1B, but every time I did a mock draft I ended up with some 1B options in the next few rounds and regretted that I already drafted a 1B early. expect me to fail getting a valuable 1B this season.
the problem with a later pick is also that you don't know if the players you like at #10 will still be there because others like them too. this year there is the additional uncertainty of how high Kershaw might go.

1.03 Giancarlo Stanton, OF, MIA
my strategy worked. I got Stanton. more power than McCutchen with less speed. I guess it will be easier to find speed in later rounds than to find power.

was a bit suprised that Kershaw went at #2. I don't think Kershaw will be that far ahead the rest of the competition. I for myself would have taken him at around #7.

kdl212
ID: 442541815
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 16:57

Draft Slot Selection
This may be my last year playing imaginary baseball, so I have my own special draft board this year. It's an optimistic, upside-heavy draft board. That strategy makes me largely indifferent to draft slot. I only had the choice of 10-13 or 15, and went with 11 for no particular reason at all.

1.11 Troy Tulowitzki, SS, COL
A perfect selection for my upside draft. Nothing to say that the folks here don't already know. He had a 1.035 OPS last year from a MI position. I'll be happy with 140 games of .900 OPS. Yasiel Puig was my alternative.

kdl212
ID: 442541815
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 17:08

2.06 Joey Votto, 1B, CIN
Maybe I'm looking at on old draft board, like 2011 (Votto-Tulo went 4 and 5 in the RIBC draft) or 2012 (Votto-Tulo went 5 and 6). Votto hasn't lasted past the 6th pick in RIBC for years. Last year, in a decidedly awful season, he had a .390 OBP. I was certain he'd be gone by the time I picked in Round 2. Getting him with the 22nd pick was a gift that made me all-in on my draft strategy. Had he been selected, I would've gone with Carlos Santana or Scherzer, depending on how the coin landed.

Together, Votto and Tulo will either win me the hitting side of the points ledger, or join me at the bar as we watch their replacements stink up the joint.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 18:38

1.12 Edwin Encarnacion, 1B, TOR

Encarnacion figures to contribute positively in 4 of the 5 hitting categories and will bat in the middle of a loaded Toronto lineup, so I am looking at him as a foundation for my offense. He is getting up there in age and has some injury history, but he fills the 1B slot with someone who will produce when he is in the lineup. As someone who has been burned waiting on 1B in the past, I like getting 1B nailed down early. I considered Rendon here but he has his own injury thing going on, and reports on Edwin are that he will be ready for the start of the season, so I elected to take my chances with him.

RJ
ID: 54219222
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 20:03

2.15 Jacoby Ellsbury, OF, NYY
I wanted to secure some speed here without completely sacrificing power. He's been healthy-ish playing in 130+ games 3 of the last 4 seasons but as I write this I just find out that he has a mild oblique strain that will put him out of action at least a week by all accounts it's only mild. Somewhat kicking myself for not taking Santana here though.

3.02 Albert Pujols, 1B, LAA
Prince Albert had a good comeback season last year and I saw him as the top 1B still on the board. With the options that may be available next round severely limited at first I thought it was the right time. I would be happy with close to a repeat of last year.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 20:46

1.04 Andrew McCutchen, OF, PIT

I took the 4th spot in the draft because I thought there was a top 5 and then a small step down to the next few hitters. I would have been happy with either of the top 5. Ultimately, I choose McCutchen over Goldschmidt. It was a close call. McCutchen offers more proven consistency. I also learned last year that I wanted to look OF early, so why not start here. I have always waited on OF in these leagues, but last year I ended up very unhappy with my OF production and noticed that with declining offensive numbers across the game, that OF was not as deep as it has been before. (Or at least, the production of OF's 3 and 4 is not what it used to be.)

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 22:32

2.08 Freeman, Freddie - ATL -1B Considered SP1, or Posey but lets solidify the JeffG offense as the hitting studs are falling off the board. Freddie could be 90/90 with R and RBI if there is anyone left on the Braves to drive in, but another good solid pick for our format. Great OBP, and SLG in line with a front line first baseman. Good stats to start his career, at age 25 it is time to peak.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Wed, Mar 18, 2015, 23:11

2.13 Jose Reyes, SS, TOR

At this point, I should just have a rationale typed up for Reyes saved that I cut and paste, since this is the 4th or 5th time I have drafted him in this format over the years. I took Reyes last year in the second round and I was pleased. I'm doing it again this year because the MI ranks fall off pretty quickly. I usually like to start the draft with 2 MI picks in the early going, so Reyes gives me my first. The risks are clear: Reyes is a year older and an ever present injury risk. Still, he produced solid numbers last year and continues to steal bases at a plus rate without killing the ratios. As I say every year when I draft him, I am also biased. Reyes is my favorite player over the last 10 years. I just wish he was still on my beloved Mets.

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 06:25

Draft slot selection

With only four options left by the time my turn to choose came, I took the available pick (15) closest to the end of the draft mainly to allow me the opportunity to prepare two picks at once.

1.15 Cano, Robinson - SEA - 2B

Had no intention of choosing a pitcher with my first pick; went with Cano because, though he's unlikely to put up the monster numbers he did with the Yankees, he's still good for a decent OPS and will hopefully rebound a little from last year in HR's. If so, his SLG will be closer to .500. And... if he can put up double digits in steals again, that's not a lost category as it is with some first round picks.

2.02 Ramirez, Hanley - BOS - SS

Has a career OPS of .873 from the SS position, tallys double digits in steals, will have tons of RBI opportunities in the Sox lineup, I'm banking on this being a "healthy" Hanley year. Have seen him ranked as high as 7th or 8th in drafts this year, I'd hope for that kind of production but will be happy if he's worthy of the #18 pick.

holt
ID: 8251817
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 12:29

I had the choice of slots 8-16. Looking over the players that would be available, I decided I'd be OK with Cano or Altuve and it was my hope that one of them would be available at 16. Being able to make both picks at once is also convenient. You just have to plan future picks more carefully than when drafting in the middle.

1.16 Jose Altuve, 2b, HOU

.830 OPS and 56 SB last season. I don't know if he will replicate that but at only 24 years old there's no reason to expect him to drop back to his 2011-2013 numbers. Thought there was a lot more value in a top MI here than an OF/1b.

2.01 Felix Hernandez, SP, SEA

I was open to taking another hitter here but after looking them over and considering that my next pick wasn't up til 3.16 I decided to take the consensus #2 SP and not be forced to choose one of the SP that would be available at my 3.16/4.01 picks. I figured the hitters available at that point would be similar enough to what I could get here. Hernandez has 216 K or more for the past 6 seasons, and his 2.14 ERA and 0.92 whip from last season weren't too shabby.

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 12:35

3.09 Bumgarner, Madison - SF - SP
Considered some more hitting studs top my queue (Ortiz, Prince) but going starter here. As expected, Sale and Scherzer did not make it back as I hoped, but still a few SP studs left from this tier. Went with MadBum because I was seduced by his unparallelled post season. On a good team his W rate should be good (oh, wait! this is an odd year) he should have another season with a K/IP right around 1, and provide low WHIP and ERA figures. Not expecting any 5 inning saves.

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 14:29

3.07 Sale, Chris - CWS - SP

I had Scherzer, Strasburg and Sale at the top of my queue. If they all went after my 2nd round pick I would have picked a batter.

I will of course be happy with a repeat of last year, but Sale has improved each of the last three seasons. Last years improvements seem to be from an improved two seamer and an increased reliance on his change up. Only injury can prevent him from anchoring my staff.

Evan
ID: 101522414
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 14:40

4.12 Dellin Betances, RP, NYY

I probably could have gone after some other relievers here that were safer but I was enamored with him last year on my squad. He was an absolute strikeout machine with 135 K in 90 IP last season. I can't realistically expect the same K/rate but if he secures the closer role (and I really think he will), he will be a top 5 reliever.

If he doesn't win the closer role, I wasted a pick way too early on what should have gone to some other position.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 15:44

2.14 Buster Posey, C/1B, SF
I did not plan to get a catcher this early. I am prone to waiting very long and being the last manager to get a catcher. this is because I don't see much difference between the #5 or #20 at this position.
the players I considered at this point included Posey, Desmond, Brantley and Upton in that order.

Posey will play some 1B on days where he will be rested at C. comparing his stats to the other players I considered he should do better in almost all categories, especially OBP and SLG. he only lacks in speed, just like Stanton. again there is hope that I will fill that void later without overpaying.

with Posey I may have a chance to achive the rare feet of maxing out the games played at catcher. or at least come close.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 18:12

3.03 Max Scherzer, SP, WAS
Scherzer is one of the rare starters that get more than a strikeout per inning. if he pitches more than 200 innings this means he will provide me with more than 220 strikeouts. any inning more means a strikeout more. it could very well be that he leads the league in strikeouts.
in addition to that his ERA and WHIP are basically equal to all the other pitchers that were taken or will be taken around him.
playing on a stacked Washington team may provide a few more wins compared to his competition.
are these enough reasons to pick him? for me they are.

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 20:01

4.08 Ortiz, David - Bos -Util
Loading up on another 4 category hitter to make up for the MI and steals specialists I'll be fishing for later. I lose a little position flexibility as ESPN only has Big Papi listed as a DH, but sitting in the middle of a potent lineup, the ageless one shows no signs of slowing down. Expect a healthy season with a minimum of 90 RBI, 70 R, .360 OBP, and .510 SLG. Actually considered him last round.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 21:40

3.10George Springer OF Hou

I looked at Fielder, Upton and Yelich here, but I'm into the hype about Springer. Despite a slow start after being called up, and an unfortunate early end to last years season, George managed to hit 20 HR's and knock in 51 runs in only 78 games. That's sweet.

Digging further, Springer stole 87 bases in 287 minor league games, which at least last year, didn't transcend to the bigs, but the potential is there.

I'm thinking 85 runs, 100 RBI's and 20 SB's are within reach, with an OPS north of .800

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 21:49

4.07 Greg Holland RP KAN

I wanted to grab a starting pitcher here, but none of the available options seemed right. At least not right now.

So with only one closer of the boards at this point, why not get one of the best. Greg Holland.

Last year, Holland K'd 90 batters in only 63 innings, had a ERA of 1.44 and WHIP of 0.91. And did I mentioned 46 saves? It doesn't get much better than that.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 22:22

3.13 Cueto, Johnny, SP, CIN

I intended to pick a SP in either round 3 or 4. I did not expect 5 of the 7 picks prior to mine to also be SPs, so my options were certainly more limited. Cueto had a great 2014, finishing 2nd in the Cy Young voting, striking out 25% of the batters he faced, a 2.25 ERA, and a 242/65 K/BB ratio. My biggest fear is that the 243 innings he pitched will wear on him this season. He likely won’t reach those numbers this season, but 200+ Ks, and a 2.75 ERA still leaves him a notch above the remaining SPs on the board.

4.04 Yelich, Christian, OF, MIA

At the age of 22, Yelich had a nice breakout season in 2014. He’s more of a line-drive hitter than a big bopper, but that smooth swing led to a .284/.362/.402 line, and he contributed 21 SBs. He’ll be batting 2nd or 3rd this season, so the opportunity to add more RBIs is certainly there. 100+ runs seems possible too, with Stanton knocking him in. I would have taken Justin Upton instead, but Guru beat me to him by one pick.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 22:29

2.05 Bryce Harper, OF, WAS

Hoping this is the year Harper stays healthy and puts it all together. Projected to contribute in 4 categories and chip in some steals, I like the OPS potential he brings to the table as an OF. Basically trying to start off my team with two potent hitters.

RJ
ID: 54219222
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 22:57

4.15 Kyle Seager, 3B, SEA
Saw him as the best available 3B in a dwindling pool. Seager has been a steady producer the last couple of years and played in 157 games last year. He should give me 90+ RBIs, 70+ runs, a handful of steals with a modest OPS. The big thing is the durability. Should be a good value for the slot.

5.02 Jon Lester, SP, CHC
Lester was a big surprise last year as he had a career year. I think with a move to the NL he'll put up something reasonably close to those numbers again. He has also been a model of good health, starting over 30 games per season since 2008. Probably the safest option available at this point in terms of SPs. I also like to have a couple top quality starters to round out my staff.

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 23:35

3.11 Corey Kluber, SP, CLE
The all-upside team was *this* close to getting George Springer, which, if it had happened, would have required new pants. As it was, I admit I peed a little bit with excitement knowing he was on the board with just one pick before me.

As a consolation prize, and consistent with my 2011 draft board approach to the first 2 rounds, I almost went with Carlos Gonzalez. But I wanted to get a top 10 starter, I only counted 3 more of those left, and 4 teams without a starting pitcher yet were slated to draft between this pick and my 4th. (And, sure enough, 3 of them took SPs before I had a chance to pick again in the 4th).

Kluber was unbelievable last year. Cliff Lee-redux, in fact. As a life-long Mariners fan, I really wanted him to flounder at the end so Felix could get the Cy Young, but he simply didn't. I'll take a little regression if that still means 200k and nice ratios. Would've preferred Scherzer or Strasburg, but I was frankly surprised they last as long as they did. As I mentioned before, I nearly took Scherzer in Round 2. Nearly went with Greinke b/c I love that slow curve, but Kluber's extra strikeout per nine was the difference-maker.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 23:40

3.12 Zack Greinke, SP, LAD

Took Greinke here to start off my pitching staff because I don't like waiting too long for pitching in a 16 team league. He figures to contribute close to 200 K's with good ratios and should be in good position for some wins with the Dodgers.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Thu, Mar 19, 2015, 23:54

4.05 Mookie Betts, OF, BOS

Not really sure what I have here but the more I thought about Mookie, the more I felt I had to have him. He's off to a rousing start in spring training and, yes, I know these games don't count but he projects to steal 25-30 bases without giving anything up in OBP and he also figures to hit 10-15 homers. Looking like he will hit at the top of the Red Sox lineup so I decided to gamble with him on this pick figuring he might not make it back to me.

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 07:01

3.15 Fielder, Prince, 1B, TEX

Quite a few SP's went off the board in round 3, eight in the first 13 picks... I saw two more that I could justify taking at this point but decided it was likely I'd get on after the turn to round 4.

Chose Fielder hoping that last year's expected bounce back from a disappointing 2013 will happen this year. I know it's a risky pick, but he appears healthy and if his production is even slightly better than his 2013 numbers (.819 OPS, 188 RBI/Runs combined)... well, I won't be upset.

filthy
ID: 4157202
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 08:38

2.16/3.01 Carlos Santana, 1B/3B, CLE & David Price, SP, DET

If not for Mike Trout, I may have been tempted to try my luck at landing a combo of Bautista & Donaldson, which would not have been possible in hindsight, so I'm extra glad for Mike Trout already!

The forming of the team during the early stages of the draft is a very fun time. Especially being at the turn, where reaching is necessary to consider for getting your targetted players. The only real restriction on me this time around was to avoid an outfielder. I'm glad we didn't have a speedy start, as I was kind of avoiding the pain of watching the 30 picks before me go by.

As my turn arrived I was still deep in contemplation. My top options came down to Bumgarner, Price, Scherzer, Strasburg, Santana, AGonzalez and I really was searching the news and numbers to try to find a standout anchor for the staff, and the infield.

Santana and AGonzalez are awesome in this format, but Santana stands out to me due to his recovery from a horrible start last year. I think he really overcame the demands of a position switch mostly, and should be an absolute monster this year.

Every pitcher I considered has a high workload, and really should have turned me towards another bat, but all signs were pointed to Bumgarner regardless of what logic could trick me into doing. Hindsight wishes I was willing to add a second outfielder honestly. Dickerson or CGonzalez never even hit my radar, but that's how the early rounds go. As for Bumgarner, all those brilliant postseason innings can't get out of my head anytime soon, but also made me extra hesitant to bet so heavily on him. Scherzer and Price's strikeout totals from last season also really started to stand out the more I hesitated on Bumgarner. In a close call, I'll always choose the lefty, especially when he's a control specialist, so David Price it is. Now the time for fun with queues shall begin!!

filthy
ID: 4157202
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 08:39

Sorry to post like that Guru. Consider the last paragraph the David Price rationale as you will likely want to keep them separate.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 10:02

5.10 Cole Hamels SP Phi

I had planned on taking a hitter here, as is my norm to grab at least 4 in the first 5 rounds. But a lot of SP's have been taken, and in looking over the list of remaining starters Cole's name kept jumping out at me.

I scoured the various site thinking there must be something wrong with him ( other than pitching for a seemingly bad team ), and couldn't find anything. He was in past years taken as high as early round 3.

He's older, and things do change. Rumbling abound he may be headed out of Philly, probably to a a better team, and maybe to a more pitcher friendly park. He has 50 quality starts the last 2 years, only two less that the league leaders, but with only 17 W's. Compare that to the 5 pitchers with at least 45 quality starts, none of which have less than 27 W's

Whatever happens, he should be penciled in for 200+ K's, excellent ratios, and with some luck or a move elsewhere, 15 W's

ESPN has him ranked 46th overall, Rotowire 56th. This is pick 74, about double his selection in the past. Round 5 feels right or maybe even a bargain.

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 12:35

4.06 Chris Davis, 1B/3B, BAL
It shocked me to read that MLB has given Chris Davis permission to use meth-amphetamines this season. Not only is that an illegal drug, but it also seems like such a bad idea. I mean, it might help for the first week or so, but it could get ugly really quick. If Davis can manage it without meth mouth impacting his focus and the premature aging turning him into a 37 year old declining slugger by the All-Star break, then he just might return to 50 homer form. I'll take that upside.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 14:07

5.05 David Robertson, RP, CWS

I broke my golden rule about not drafting relief pictures early. After getting burned last season (the closer ran began at the beginning of the 5th round) I vowed not to make that mistake again. It is too difficult to makeup ground in saves in a 16 team league. I now have two dominant closers with big strikeout numbers in Betances (assuming he takes the role) and Robertson.

Robertson just signed a big contract and he dealt with big pressure succeeding Mariano Rivera in New York. He was superb last year and was kind of overshadowed by Betances. I can't imagine a drop off in Chicago. As a Yankee fan myself, I will be rooting for the ex-Yankee closer.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 16:51

4.14 Dee Gordon, 2B, MIA
Dee Gordon was #18 on the ESPN player rater in 2014. mainly because he does what my first two hitters do not: stealing bases. when you get such a player with the 62nd pick you don't feel that you reached for a speedster. we will see if he will steal 50+ bases again.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 16:52

5.03 Todd Frazier, 1B/3B, CIN
thought a bit about a 2nd starting pitcher but thought that there are too many pretty equal players left. I guess one of them will make it back to me, although that means over 20 players will be picked until then. I am up for the gamble.
looking at the hitters that have a good OBP/SLG there were not many options left, especially at 1B, 3B or SS. Frazier was the #3 3B in 2014 and I selected him as the 10th 3B in this draft. he may not be as good as last season but if he comes close he will be a cornerstone of my team.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 17:07

3.04 Adrian Gonzalez, 1B, LAD

Wanted a power source and Gonzalez provides just that. He has been a fairly consistent performer and even though he is getting older, I don't expect him to experience a major drop off from last year's numbers.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 17:09

6.12, Manny Machado, 3B, BAL

One of my targets before the draft started. Injuries are the only thing holding this kid back. He is only 22 years old and has logged many games in MLB. If he stays healthy, I expect very good counting stats. Spring numbers don't mean much, but he is on fire so far. Let's hope he carries it into the season!

I'll take a shot with one of the top young players in baseball at selection #92. He had my heart with that barehanded play against the Yankees a couple of years ago. One of the greatest fielding plays I've ever seen...

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 17:15

4.13 Matt Harvey, SP, NYM

You only live once. I acknowledge the risk here and imagine many of you will hate this pick, but I just love Harvey. He has progressed in the way you'd want to see a pitcher coming back from TJ surgery should profess. If healthy, then he is an ace. I couldn't pass up the chance. Zimmerman was the safer choice and my other consideration.

holt
ID: 8251817
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 17:21

5.16 Trevor Rosenthal, RP, StL

Pre-draft I was thinking of rounds 7-8 for closers but with 7 off the board already I had to pull the trigger. Picking in the 16th slot, I can't afford to hold off for another 30 picks. Rosenthal walked to many batters last season but this is something that they have been addressing in his mechanics. I basically chose him based on his age and job stability (and I watch most Cardinals games so that doesn't hurt).

6.01 Steve Cishek, RP, MIA

I really wanted to take another power bat here but with guys like Holliday, Kemp, Bryant, Heyward off the board there wasn't anyone that I felt I had to pull the trigger on, so I just doubled down on another solid closer. Like with Rosenthal, I went with youth and job stability.

I have to say, I'm disappointed that closers are starting to go early in the draft again. Seems like the trend had been for closers to go later in the draft but we're cycling back the other way now.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 17:22

5.04 Yoenis Cespedes, Of, DET

This guy burned my a few years ago when I drafted him as my OF #1 and he underwhelmed. But he ended up with pretty good numbers last year and I figure at this point he is the player he is and his production should be stable. His OBP leaves something to be desired for a power guy, but it's hard to find guys with legitimate chances at 100 RBI at this point in the draft. I'm hoping as my OF #2 he'll pay me back what he owes me from a fantasy season past.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 17:29

6.13 Dustin Petrolia, 2B, BOS

I was less than thrilled with the prospect of waiting much longer for another MI. This is another risky pick which likely doesn't bode well for me (reverse jinx) but it seems he is healthy. Pedroia is passed his prime, but he still finds himself in a potent lineup and helps with the counting stats. I knew I wanted another SP, but there were a few I liked and figured one would survive the turn.

holt
ID: 8251817
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 17:47

3.16 Carlos Gonzalez, OF, COL

I drafted Gonzalez in rd 1 of the RIBC draft last season and got burned due to his knee problems. Reports are very positive on his overall health at this time so he could be a great bargain as the 48th overall pick. He's still only 29 yrs old, and he still plays in Colorado. I think a .900 OPS and 20 steals are possible so I'm very happy with this pick.

4.01 Matt Carpenter, 3b, StL

This was a tough one. There were some pretty good bats available, but Carpenter is a thirdbaseman with a great OBP and run production and I'm pretty optimistic on his power bouncing back a bit this season. I felt 4.01 was a little too early but I'm pretty sure he would be gone by 5.16.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 18:04

7.05, Hisashi Iwakuma, SP, SEA

I was one pick away from Samardzija so I had to fall on my backup plan. There are pitchers available with better strikeouts than Iwakuma (a big consideration when selecting a SP for me) but I couldn't pass up his strength of limiting walks, commanding the strike-zone and keeping batted balls on the ground. He will help me greatly in the WHIP column. Seattle looks like a better offensive team so Iwakuma could be seeing more wins.

He missed the first 5 weeks of last season due to a freak finger injury (got hung up in a training net) so his numbers weren't as complete in 2014. He is also 34 which turns some people away. I like him to anchor my staff as I expect stability and reliability.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 18:32

6.07 Ryan Zimmerman 3B WAS

Zimmerman is only two years removed from smacking 25 HR's, driving in 95 runs and crossing the plate 93 times, with excellant %'s. Injuries slowed him somewhat two years ago, although he still remained productive. Last year was a disaster, playing only 61 games, but even then his ratios remained constant.

But the big news, was a switch to the OF last year, and this year the switch to 1B. He supposedly is healthy this year, and playing first base daily should help avoid the nagging injuries that plagued him last year

I'm loving the potential 1B/3B/OF eligibility, and a return to potential production of 2012. I'm think the risk is worth the potential rewards here.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 18:40

5.12 Pablo Sandoval, 3B, BOS

Was all set to take Cody Allen here and, as often seems to happen in RIBC, he was taken right in front of me. Then went back and forth between Sandoval and Kipnis, ultimately picking Pablo. Steamer likes him best of the remaining 3B and I like the idea of him hitting in Fenway and some of the other AL East parks so he's my third sacker.

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 21:53

4.10 Longoria, Evan, 3B, TB

A perennial 1st or 2nd round draft pick in RIBC but coming off a down year slipped to me after pick 50. I'm buying into the career ops of .851 not last seasons struggles. Maybe some have viewed his decline as age related but he is only 29. Even in last years down season he still scored 83 and drove in 91. With a typical season he should provide me 190+ runs and rbi while setting obp and slug marks above 350 and 460 respectively.

5.07 Kemp, Matt, OF, SD

I would have taken Bryant if he was available. He was oddly the only one I had drafted since Longoria who I have higher than Kemp. I guess I am not as worried about the Petco effect or injuries as others.

beastiemiked
ID: 481162721
Fri, Mar 20, 2015, 23:55

1.08 Anthony Rizzo, 1b, CHC

I selected the earliest pick I could with my draft selection. I knew I wanted a high OBP hitter and figured I'd have a better chance of getting one with the earliest pick possible. Thought about Jose Bautista but he's getting up there in age and it's unlikely he can duplicate last year. Rizzo's counting numbers should be helped immensely by the boost their lineup will get from all their young talent.

2.09 Adrian Beltre, 3b, TEX
A timeless wonder. I wanted another hitter and preferably one at a harder to fill position. Pretty straight forward pick. I wanted someone that should produce as long as he stays healthy. Braun entered my mind but there's just too many question marks surrounding him. Looking back at the pick a SS would've been nice here as that position is THIN. Still would've probably picked Beltre since he's so rock solid

3.08 Corey Dickerson, OF, COL
Wow, what a difference a year makes for Dickerson. A duplicate of last year would be very nice. He's a nice sneaky pick for some added steals. There was a run of SPs after my pick. I felt like I needed to secure more hitting before selecting a SP. Springer was my backup pick.

4.09 Craig Kimbrel, RP, ATL
I feel guys like Chapman, Holland, and Kimbrel should have a different name than just closer. These guys provide much more than just saves. They are great assets in ERA and WHIP and really help out the K/9. I'm not afraid of the Braves sucking as it seems that has little bearing on save chances. I just love knowing that as long as Kimbrel stays healthy I can write down 40+ saves for my team.

5.08 Jason Heyward, OF, STL
Upside! Heyward is only 25 years old. If he produces like Steamer projections than he's a top 40 player. I have no idea why he somehow lost power but a guy his age doesn't just lose it and not have the ability to get it back. If things break the right way he could be a top 10 player.

6.09 James Shields, SP, SD
Decided to go with my first SP here. I feel like after the next tier the SP's are starting to be a crapshoot. Shields has been one of the steadiest pitchers in all of baseball. I guess that's not necessarily a good thing for his arm but he still keeps on throwing 210+ innings a year. His fastball seems to be staying around the same velocity so I'm hoping his k rate can climb back closer to 8 per 9. LOVE that he's going to the NL. The next 3 sp's taken were all under my consideration as well but I decided to go with the most consistent.

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 00:35

5.11 Cody Allen, RP, CLE
I've consistently been able to find 30+ saves a year on the waiver wire, but can't resist the allure of taking a closer early. I enjoyed owning Greg Holland last year, and picked him at this exact same spot. Since folks had started going after closers (too soon, I agree, except for the insanely high strikeout guys), I figured I should get one before the pickings became shakier. For 2 years running, Allen has struck out 11+/9 innings. Good enough.

I wasn't considering any of the people who went between this pick and my 6th round pick except one (Kipnis), which is rare and nice.

Tosh
ID: 3822913
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 00:45

5.13 Kipnis, Jason 2b CLE

A highly sought-after player in 2014, Kipnis suffered through a season of injuries and regression. If at age 28, he can regain some of the line drive power he flashed in 2013, he’ll be one of the elite 2B, with a solid combination of power and speed. A 20/20 season is possible.

6.04 Zimmermann, Jordan SP WAS

With 5 picks until mine, I had a 4-man queue of 3 closers, and Victor Martinez. I now owe a couple bucks into the ‘swear jar’, as I saw those 4 players vanish in the 4 picks prior to mine. Rather than reach into the next tier of 1B or RPs, I decided to take a workhorse at SP with Jordan Zimmermann. There is no reason to believe he can’t match his 2.66 ERA and 1.07 WHIP from 2014, and 20 wins is possible with the strong Washington team.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 12:33

6.05 Huston Street, RP, SD

Selected Street to try and lock down at least one bonafide closer to begin the season. His peripherals aren't elite by any means but he was good for 41 saves last year and I will gladly take that again.

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 14:32

4.02 Wainwright, Adam - STL - SP

...and I got my SP on the turn. There are health concerns with Wainwright now, here's hoping nothing hampers his 200+ inning workload this year. He should post good ERA and WHIP, tally 175+ K's and he's won 39 games in the last two years. I'll take it as my #1 SP 50 picks in.

5.15 Holliday, Matt - STL - OF

He's 35 and on the down side of his career, after posting by for his lowest OPS in 2014. However, he played in 156 games and he should still be good for +/- 170 RBI/Runs combined along with a reliably good OBP that, at this point in the draft, is tough to find.

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 14:41

6.02 Britton, Zach - BALT - RP

I'm not real thrilled with this pick here, didn't want to take a closer yet. The best were off the board, then a few went in round 5, then holt took a pair on the turn; I liked a few hitters and a couple of SP's better at this point but I was afraid to see what my options would be nearly 30 picks later if I didn't take one now. Hopefully I don't regret this. I'm sure his ERA and WHIP won't be quite as good as 2014 but he should be good for +/- 40 saves.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 17:26

6.14 Julio Teheran, SP, ATL
a few picks ago I thought that I gambled too much because the pitchers I liked and already considered with my last pick were getting fewer and fewer. with Tanaka taken there was only 1 left. fortunately he survived.
At this point I like the starter over the closer because the closer gets you a 3rd of the stats at W, ERA and WHIP with hopefully not much less K/9. the cost is that you don't get any saves.
Teheran is still young but already producing at a high level. his ERA/WHIP should be great and the K-rate isn't that bad compared to other remaining options. wins are probably tough for him because the Braves may struggle to produce much offense. dear Braves: surprise me, at least every 5 days. I mean the days Teheran is pitching, not any day in between.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 19:06

7.03 Ben Zobrist, 2B/SS/OF (1B/3B), OAK
the last few seasons Zobrist played basically every position other than catcher or pitcher. he is now on a new team which is planning to deploy him in a similar role. for a MI he provides good percentages and counting stats. he is definitely above average.
what I really want to see is that he needs to step in as an emergency catcher or to pitch the 15th inning of a double header and earn the win.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sat, Mar 21, 2015, 23:02

7.12 Neil Walker, 2B, PIT

Walker put up a .342 OBP with a .467 SLG last year and, while he is not projected for quite as much power this year, his numbers have been consistent and will play well for a 2B in this format. He won't contribute much in SB, but I will try to address that with later picks. Seriously thought about Gerrit Cole here and of course he didn't make it back to me.

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 02:21

6.06 Billy Hamilton, OF, CIN
The moment of truth for my draft. Play it conservative and draft Ryan Zimmerman, and his 1B/3B/OF eligibility, hope for a rebound from OBP machine Shin-Soo Choo, or be that guy who understands that 600 at-bats of 292/350 are brutal in this league, and draft Billy Hamilton anyway.

So I did some reading. And I was convinced to roll the dice on Hamilton at pick 86 in this upside-special of a draft. I certainly had no speed as of yet (Tulo/Votto/ChrisDavis), but I had Tulo and Votto to balance out his OBP, and if I was lucky (and it turned out I was!) Choo would make it back to me. Maybe that's enough to hide Hamilton's ratios, and gives me a little freedom later in the draft to avoid drafting two 25-steal guys who provide just as empty ratios.

And that was it in the end - get the bulk of my steals from one sink-hole of a roster spot, instead of cobbling them together from 2 or 3 sinkholes.

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 02:35

7.11 Shin-Soo Choo, OF, TEX
We've arrived at the point of the draft where I really feel like I need to make 2 selections each round, because it's clear that I simply won't be able to fill all my slots with the guys I want. Going OF here means losing out on a closer; going SP risks landing in a lower tier when you get to MI; drafting a closer means my hitting suffers....... Choo is no spring chicken, and his 20 steal days are certainly in the past. But .370/.400 seems possible, with either a decent number of runs if he hits second, or RBIs if he hits fifth. That would be good value at pick 107.

Considered Jayson Werth, but he's even older than Choo.

I was probably too influenced by having just picked Hamilton and overly focused on beefing up my OBP. The Mariner fan in me would've enjoyed owning Cruz or Rodney (unless they end up stinking the joint up, at which point I kick myself for drafting like a homer. And that's why I've rarely drafted Mariners.)

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 08:36

4.16 Ian Kinsler, 2B, DET

Added like 50 players to my queue and cut it down to my fave 32 after my last picks. Got it down to 18 with 16 picks before me, and had sorted it enough that I was pretty content despite the draftime crash. Checked in briefly once draftime was back in the morning, but didn't re-sort and figured I'd be back home before it got to me anyway. This was not the case and I was too rusty at drafting to have shortened my autopick time before leaving home that morning, so I kinda defeated the purpose of being prepared that time around. Oops.

As for Kinsler, the guy's career speaks for itself. He edged out Kipnis as the top MI on my radar, which was my main position target for one of these picks. Both guys were among the top 5 of my final draft 18 man queue I had last settled on. Minimal question marks on the early round picks is ideal, so the queue was littered with safe picks. Only a couple closers and one rookie were considered at the time. More on that in the next rationale though. Kinsler's consistent all around talent is what had him ranked ahead of the rest this time around.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 08:50

7.10 Kolten Wong 2B STL

I really had planned on addressing MI positions last round, but took Ryan Zimmerman instead. I hope that pans out. I had Kipnis on my radar. Oh well. I Would have gladly settled for Zobrist with his multi-position eligibility. Oh well again.

So welcome to team SANFORDORS, Kolten Wong. Wong's upside is without question, with a combination of power and speed which can come in useful.

Kolten struggled at times last year, with %'s that certainly need improving, but that could be due in part to a shoulder injury. In spite of that, he managed 12 HR's and 20 SB's in only 113 games,

Only 24, all signs are pointing upward for 2015

8.07 Drew Storen RP WAS

I had a problem with the pick as I was traveling and only had a few moments to make a pick from my phone, I would have been out of reach beyond my time limit.

As I scanned the players, I had queued up ( without any real planned order ) I decided to take another RP. That wasn't in my plans, but with limited information, it seemed as safe play. Having selected Holland earlier, I figured it was useless to take a top RP, without grabbing at least one more along the way.

Storen seemed to be the best remaining option. He went through hand surgery, but all accounts point toward him being ready by the beginning of the season.

Once handed the closer gig last year, he recorded 10 saves in September. Hopefully he can notch 40 saves, and a K/inning.

I'm not totally happy with this pick, but trying to make it sound that way ;)

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 08:58

5.01 Kris Bryant, 3B, CHC

Minimal question marks on the early round picks? Oops again... Forgot to mention I always like to throw in a couple razzle-dazzle picks to spice up and diversify my virtual clubhouse a bit.

I generally try very hard to resist prospect hype, but always seem to buy heavy into one or two prospects a year. In past RIBC leagues, I drafted Harper knowing he'd be a midseason callup, and drafted Hamilton ridiculously early last year to keep this pick company in my memory bank of big, bold RIBC moves.

All throughout my searching while making my queue, the hype on Bryant was impossible to ignore. He didn't have the splashy late season callup that got me extra hyped on Hamilton last year, but the year Bryant had last year combined with the early spring results made it impossible to keep him from rising up my queue.

And much like Hamilton last year, surprised even myself by how much I let my gut take over and allow Bryant to end up as number 2 on the 18 man queue I had set after pick 47. Had I manually picked, I may have wimped out and went safer here, but Bryant was making it hard for anyone else to really stand out. Hopeful he gets to play most of the season. I'm expecting growing pains, but also expecting multiple months of elite production by the end of the year.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 09:05

9/10 Xander Bogerts SS BOS

Panic sets in that I had no SS, and with a less than deep pool to begin with, I thought I'd grab one now.

Why not go with youth. Only 21, Xander won't get many steals from a position I'd normally like to have contribute in that category, but he does have some pop, and I think he's capable of 20 HR's. He had a strong start last year, but struggled mightily with a shift to 3B. Was that the reason, I hope so, as he managed to finish strong ( 4 HR's, 16 RBI's ) over the final 24 games with a return to his natural position

He will the Boston's regular SS and with a year under his belt should be a solid pick in round 9

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 09:18

6.16 Josh Harrison, 3B/OF, PIT

I don't know about this one the more I consider the ESPN games played minimums. As a big believer that a steady role can translate to offense, I like Harrison's chances to put up a season close to last years' though. Eligible at 3B if Bryant is put on hold, and flexibility at OF, with potential to sneak into MI eligibility if any Pirate MI injuries occur doesn't hurt either. Speed without hurting the percentages is a rare edge to have from an infielder too.

It's all about the rundowns mostly. Electric player that I think can repeat on last year. At the time, I was more confident he'd gain MI eligibility at some point, so he was ahead of Zobrist and DSantana on my radar, but I'm feeling that I'll look back and wish I picked a shortstop, a closer, or been brave enough to go for AJPollock.

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 09:36

7.01 Sonny Gray, SP, OAK

Still remaining from my queue on the last turnaround, but since passed by Harrison as I bumped infielders up my priority list. Gray, Teheran, Zobrist, DSantana, NWalker, Wong, Morneau, Storen, Benoit, Cishek, VMartinez were also among names I was considering this time around. A few were picked before my turn, and a few really make me regret going Harrison, but no matter how I sorted the queue for these picks, I couldn't keep Gray out of my top 2, and glad he survived all the heartbreak this time around.

One of the better young arms in the game, I like everything about Gray's situation to keep improving this year. Wins might hurt, but there aren't many question marks beyond that.

Initial top 2 while awaiting holt's picks had Gray and Cishek, but as the morning picks came in, some major shuffling was going on. I also should mention that I really like the Laroche, Santana & Pollock picks to pay off and wish I had done some more shuffling to bump at least one of those guys up.

RJ
ID: 54219222
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 10:22

6.15 Starlin Castro, SS, CHC
I think I got a great value with Starlin here as he's been consistent health wise and has been fairly consistent stat wise throughout his career. I also hope to see his steals rise a bit, even double digits would be great. Plus he's got a good OPS for the position.

7.02 Kole Calhoun, OF, LAA
Not sure if I took him too early here or not but he's the leadoff man in a stacked Angels lineup and hoping for him to improve a little bit on last year's numbers as he's young as has some upside. Should be a runs machine at the very least with 20hr/10sb being a realistic floor expecation.

8.15 Jonathan Papelbon, RP, PHI
Time to take a closer as they're falling off the board. Papelbon isn't really flashy but he gets the job and has been consistent over his career- notching 29+ saves per season since 06'.

9.02 Chris Carter, DH, HOU
One of the last remaining pure power guys, I was a bit disappointed to see Carter only being available at Util but I couldn't deny his raw power. Plus he's still young so I'm thinking 30hr floor with an outside shot for 40. He was second in homers in the AL last year and I still say he has a little upside. Here's hoping he can pick up enough spot starts over the season to qualify at OF and or/1B.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 10:24

Nelson Cruz, OF, SEA

I didn't want to select a 3rd outfielder at this point but I thought he was being way overlooked. Power is scarce and he could easily hit 30 homeruns this season. He should also be hitting cleanup in the Mariners lineup which will put him in a position to load up on RBIs.

I never imagined him on my team but felt the right time was now.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 10:28

Martin Prado, 2B/3B, MIA

I have never done a draft where I have had the middle infield slot empty 8-9 rounds in a draft. My philosophy is to draft MI early on due to the position scarcity. I was really in a hole at this point.

I probably reached a little, but I needed to get SOMEONE. Prado should be a steadying presence in Miami and plays a little 3B too. I certainly won't get many homeruns and steals from him but his OBP isn't terrible and he does get his share of RBIs and Runs. We'll see...

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 18:28

8.05 Jake Arrieta, SP, CHN

I decided to grab my second starter with this pick and settled on Arrieta. He is coming off a breakout year (2.53 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 167 Ks over 156 innings) and although some regression is to be expected, the Cubs are looking for him to be a workhorse on the staff and seem to believe he can continue last year's success. If he comes through I should have a nice one two punch at the top of my rotation.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 22:45

11.05 Andrew Miller, RP, NYY

I reached but had to draft him to make sure I have protection with Betances. I think its safe to say that I will have the Yankees closer this year.

Miller was outstanding last season and, even if he secures the role of setup man as expected, should give me some great numbers; he had a 14.87 k/9 ratio and 0.80 WHIP in 2014! He is one of the most valuable non-closer relief pitchers in MLB.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 22:47

7.04 Jeff Samardzija SP CWS

I was looking for another starting pitcher to provide as many K's as possible. I'm expecting the increase in ratios most projection sites are predicting, but he still provides a solid #2 starter. Also considered closer, but I've grown pretty stubborn about that in the past few years.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 22:51

8.13 Mark Trumbo 1b/OF ARI

Was really hoping for Hosmer here, as his upside was more promising than Trumbo. Settled for Trumbo anyway since I needed 2 more CI and he sorted out as the best option to me. I knew I would be targeting steals later in the draft so he provided a decent supply of power at this stage in the draft. Also thought closer but passed again.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 22:57

9.04 Carlos Carrasco SP Cle

I was finally ready to take either Papelbon or Perkins, but neither made it back to me. Rather than take a closer I ranked in the next tier, I took my third starting pitcher. Carrasco offers an exciting k rate and I'm happy to add him. It was between him and Gio Gonzalez but I slightly scared off from Gio because of injury concern. I took a Cleveland SP last year I knew little about before the draft (Kluber) based on k potential and that worked out pretty well. I'm hoping history repeats itself.

holt
ID: 222581821
Sun, Mar 22, 2015, 23:42

7.16 Justin Morneau, 1b, COL

I needed to address some RBI and SLG issues. Morneau was great in his first season in Colorado (.319 .364 .496). Just hoping for more of the same. He'll likely drop off a bit but I thought Morneau offered the best OBP outlook of all the "sluggers" I was looking at. He's still only 33 yrs old so I'm not worried about the wheels falling off suddenly.

8.01 Brandon Belt, 1b, SF

I couldn't decide between Morneau and Belt so I just drafted both of them. Belt's final numbers were pretty bad last year due to various injuries (.755 OPS). I basically them out the window. He may have been a reach in the 8th round. I don't know. I kind of figured that I wouldn't be the only one ignoring last season's numbers and my next pick was far away at 9.16. From what I've read he'll probably be hitting in the 3 or the 5 hole. That's good. I believe he turns 27 in a month or two. Hoping for that career year, or at least something that resembles 2013 (.841 OPS in 500 AB.

I was also looking at players like Blackmon, A. Gordon, Carrasco, Arrietta but I couldn't decide between Morneau and Belt so just took both of em. Filling two CI slots seemed like a good thing to get out of the way (and Belt may gain OF eligibility).

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 12:49

8.06 Howie Kendrick, 2B, LAD
This pick represents slow, but steady, RIBC growth for me. It used to be that I'd pick decidedly second tier middle infielders in round 6, and then realize at the end of the year that those were wasted picks. Not, I've put off that unexciting selection until Round 8. That said, Kendrick could be in a nice spot in L.A., and simply repeating his rather consistent output of the last few years would be perfectly acceptable. He's been every-other-year with extra power, and this should be a .440 SLUG year, especially with a better park for power.

This was an auto pick b/c I was out early Saturday morning. Belt and Jansen were above Kendrick in the queue, Nelson Cruz was right after him.

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 13:48

7.13 Rodney, Fernando, RP, SEA
As a long-time Seattle Mariner fan, I was distressed when they signed Rodney last season. They could have used that $14 million to sign a 1B, SS, or OFer which they desperately needed. Despite putting a guy on base 34 of his 51 save chances, he was able to close out game after game. I’m hoping he can last one more year as a closer and give me another 46 saves, while making those 9th innings a little less exciting.

8.04 Duda, Lucas, 1B, NYM
Sometimes real-life gets busy on the weekends, and this is one of them. I have a swim meet (I am a head coach), 2 lacrosse games (daughter’s new sport), an old-school draft sitting around a table, and a lot of driving. And I still have to choose players in RIBC. Not much time to sort thru my player lists.

My projections currently show me in last place in OBP, and 2nd to last in SLG. Duda was a beast last season versus RHP last season with a .915 OPS. Unfortunately, his OPS versus lefties was .516. I don’t want to platoon my 8th round pick, but I might just have to do that if Duda can’t improve. He’ll have an everyday job with the Mets, so he’ll have plenty of chances to practice. I also considered Hosmer and Trumbo, but I see Duda having more power than Hosmer, and Trumbo’s OBP is just too low.

9.13 Rodriguez, Francisco, RP, MIL
K-Rod returns to Milwaukee to fill their closer position again. He was one of the best not that long ago, fell apart for a couple seasons, but was surprisingly strong in 2014. If he can maintain a WHIP around 1.1, he should be solid enough again this season to give me 35 saves this season.

10.04 Mesoraco, Devin, C, CIN
I’m still chasing SLG and OBP, and Mesoraco had a breakthrough in both categories last season, with a .893 OPS. I’m not expecting anything that high this season, but if he stays healthy, he should provide 22-25 HRs, and finish in the upper-tier of catcher numbers.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 14:55

8.14 Joaquin Benoit, RP, SD
up to this point a have no closer. it is time to plan when to take the 2 closers that every team should get. I thought that I would take one in round 9 and and one in round 10/11.
for this pick I waited all day long to draft Mark Trumbo. not only is he eligible at 1B, he will also be eligible at OF soon. too bad he went 1 pick too early. since there are no other infield options left to be taken that high I thought that it would be good to take a closer now. the next 2 teams don't have one either so it is likely that at least 2 closers will be taken in the next 4 picks.
out of the remaining closers Benoit stood out for me. he plays for an improved Padres team and averages more than 1 strikeout per inning with better ERA/WHIP than most remaining options. every closer taken at this point should get at least 30 saves and that is what I am asking for.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 14:56

9.03 Glen Perkins, RP, MIN
instead of round 9 + 10/11 I get my closers in rounds 8 + 9. lets see which hitters will fall to me in 10/11.

with the latest news that Perkins seems to be past his injury I thought that he is worth being drafted here. also considered Francisco Rodriguez who is finally at Brewers camp, but Perkins is the safer pick for me. he is very similar to Benoit with the difference that he is projected to have a worse ERA/WHIP. we all know projections can be wrong and the most important stat of a closer is how many saves he can get. as long as this number is above 30 I should do ok.

kdl212
ID: 442541815
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 17:35

9.11 J.D. Martinez, OF, DET
I had no idea what to do with this pick. I didn't want to pick a third outfielder this early. Every year, when it gets to the early teen rounds, I notice that everything but SP and OF are thin, and wish I had waited on those positions.

Yet nothing else looked all that enticing at this spot. Then I checked J.D. Martinez's meaningless spring stats, and found something I immediately imbued with important meaning - he simply hasn't stopped hitting. He's at .429/.767 with 5 home runs this spring. Sure, he won't get as lucky as he did last year, but maybe, just maybe, this is a late blooming flower. He apparently changed everything about his swing last year, and went bonkers (10 home runs in 17 AAA games, then a .900 OPS in the majors over 125 games). Here's hoping it continues.

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 19:20

5.09 Melancon, Mark - Pit - RP
Too early for a B tier closer? Just want to grab a 40 saves guy whose job should be safe, and not worry about a potential closer run. Mark isn't elite, but should be close to 1 K/IP, he should also be around a 1.00 WHIP. Panic move? Maybe. Jordon Zimmerman is sitting there still available too

6.08 Tanaka, Masahiro - NYY - SP. Jordan Zimmerman who I considered last round snatched 4 picks earlier. First of my 4 heart surgery auto picks. Set up large queues. Injury risk aside, happy to get a quality SP2 here, Tanaka is another 1 K/IP guy and even with the reduced offense, he should be good for 13-15 wins and a 3.0 ERA AND 1.1 WHIP. Also a homer pick,

7.09 La Roche, Adam - 1B - CWS.
Maybe a round or two early, but Adam's numbers have been consistent and his power and production should match well with out format and moving to a hitters park.

8.08 Werth, Jason - OF - Was
It seems like I am picking the same type of player, a little pop, run production, and helps the ratios, in Jason's case, the OBP. Just glad my auto queue did not pick up 4 catchers.

9.09 Gardner, Brett - OF - NYY.
Need steals, have enough production and ratios to give those numbers a hit. Brett should steal 20 bases, hoping more. Optimistically also hoping for 70+ runs.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 19:46

9.12 Charlie Blackmon, OF, COL

Selected Blackmon as third OF because he figures to provide solid contributions in all five offensive categories. I'm looking for .335 OBP, .425 SLG with 20+ SB, and thinking that Coors Field will give him a leg up on getting there.

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 19:58

10.05 Brett Cecil, RP, TOR

Cecil was announced as the Jays closer and, with a few people picking before me, I wasn't sure if he would still be available. After researching him and the Toronto situation, I convinced myself that he was worth a pick here as a second source of saves. If he can duplicate his 12.83 K/9 from last year, that will be the cherry on top.

Evan
ID: 5720121
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 20:36

12.12 Luis Valbuena, 2B/3B, HOU

He gives me a little more versatility in my lineup and after being traded to HOU, will get a chance to show his stuff. I'm not sure what stuff that is but he should be the starting 3B there.

I don't really know much about him other than that projections have him at around 20-25 home runs. There were other players I wanted to select but felt I needed another middle/corner outfielder.

holt
ID: 12262110
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 21:23

9.16 Michael Wacha, SP, StL

Time to grab a second SP. I just think Wacha is awesome. He's never put up bad numbers anywhere (going all the way back to grade school I assume). As long as he stays healthy, he's really good. Of the available SP at the top of my rankings, I thought Wacha had the best outlook on ERA & WHIP while also being able to put up close to a K per inning.

10.01 Alex Gordon, OF, KC

I honestly don't know if I've ever had Gordon on a team before. I usually don't consider drafting him but he kept hanging around and hanging around. I had considered drafting him two rounds earlier but thought the wrist surgery made that too risky. Looking for something like .350/.430, 90 R, 80 RBI, a dozen steals or so. Seemed like the best overall hitter available to me. I guess his off-season wrist surgery has everyone scared off.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Mon, Mar 23, 2015, 22:29

10.07 Alex Cobb SP TAM

I was very tempted to take take Matt Adams with this pick, but I only had one SP at this point. I suppose I could have waited as only 4 were taken by the time my turn came again.

But I do like Cobb. Did you know he has the 3rd lowest ERA the past two years, trailing only King Felix and Chris Sale. He's a bit of a health risk as in those two years he didn't put in a full season.

But I think he's worth that risk. Cobb has a solid fastball and curve and one of the " best change ups in baseball ", according to one site. I'm expecting 14-15 W's, nearly a K per, and excellant ratios

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 04:37

7.15 Cole, Gerrit - PIT - SP

I was afraid here that pitching was getting away from me in the draft as the SP's I was interested in at this point had dwindled to one. Cole's had shoulder problems but is throwing well this spring. Not sure he'll throw 200 innings, something I'd prefer with a #2 SP, but his WHIP and likely improved ERA (I'm counting on it being down from 3.65 last year) upside convinced me to go with him here.

8.02 Pollock, A.J. - ARI - OF

Time for another hitter, three pitchers in the first 7 rounds is more than anticipated or planned. Pollock made quite a leap in OPS last year, if he'd been able to keep it up and not had the fractured hand, this pick wouldn't be quite the leap it seems right now. He hits towards the top of the Arizona lineup and, with a full season, will steal 20+ bases to go along with what I hope is an OPS somewhere close to the .851 he put up in 2014.

9.15 Casilla, Santiago - SFO - RP

Gawd. 2 closers by the end of round 9. In smaller leagues I wouldn't be sniffing around the saves category here; in an RIBC league I'm not confident I could get past my next two picks without needing to punt the category. Since the leagues are so deep it's unlikely I'd be able to hit the waiver wire during the season for saves, so I went with my second closer here. Best shot at compiling saves is the only reason I took Casilla here, I'm hoping he holds the job all season in which case he'd be good for 35 +/-.

10.02 Pineda, Michael - NYY - SP

Continuing the theme of "more pitching sooner than I wanted," at this point I actually feel Pineda has more potential value than any of the hitters I was considering. One of the few hitters left in my queue was Mesoraco. Pineda has been awesome this spring, presumably without pine tar, and though the injury risk remains, if healthy he should put up about 180 high upside innings with just shy of a K an inning, a great WHIP and good ERA.

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 05:56

10.14 Matt Adams, 1B, STL
I already have a few guys that are eligible at 1B, but I plan to play them at other positions. I already looked for a CI with my last 2 picks but with no luck. I marked Matt Adams as a target about 20 picks ago. I know that there is a risk that he may platoon against lefties. I believe that he will be the regular first baseman for the Cardinals.
his SLG should be excellent for this draft position, all other stats are about average at this point.
continue hitting those lefties, Matt!

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 05:57

11.03 Lance Lynn, SP, STL
the 2nd Cardinal in a row.
at this point it is best for my team if I go 1 hitter + 1 pitcher when it is my turn. I took a hitter in round 10, so I take a pitcher here.
Lance Lynn was interesting because he should get one of the highest K-numbers of the remaining players with way better ERA compared to the other options.

I now have 5 solid pitchers who should be durable as well because none of them have a big injury history. although this means nothing in baseball. I better get some outfielders soon. Stanton is feeling alone covering RF, CF and LF all by himself.

Evan
ID: 101522414
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 10:53

13.05 Francisco Liriano, SP, PIT

Always an injury risk and can put a hurt on the WHIP but was one of the few high strikeout pitchers available. The staff I have constructed so far should be elite in the WHIP category so I could afford to take the risk.

He'll anchor the Pittsburgh staff and looks really good. It feels like he has been around forever but he is still relatively young at 30/31. If he stays healthy and with his makeup, I wouldn't be surprised if he had a top 15 season.

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 11:30

11.10 Andrew Cashner SP SDP

There seems to be a theme here, when I don't see a hitter I really want, I gravitate to pitching. Andrew is my second starter in a row.

Cashner seems to be an injury risk, with two DL stints last year. I know, I owned him. Maybe this is the year.....

Rotoworld say he has top 10 ability, and last year allowed 2 earned runs or less in 16 of 19 starts, pitching to an ERA of 2.55 and WHIP of 1.13. Maybe it will end up to much of a gamble, but a risk I'm willing to take. Hopefully he far exceeds his innings of last year.

12.07 Joc Pederson OF LAD

Kemp is gone, and it seems like the keys to CF for the Dodgers will be handed to Pederson. With 3 stellar season of minor league ball where he averaged 24 HR's, 29 steals and an OPS of .924, there seems little reason to keep him down on the farm.I'm talking huge upside

Joc is hitting .471 this spring with 3 HR, so he seems able to handle major league pitching

13.10 Doug Fister SP WAS

I looked at several hitters here but felt Fister was to good to pass up. He didn't strike out a ton last year, but he pitched to an ERA of 2.41 and WHIP of 1.08 with 16 W's. I find it interesting that his K/inning rate dropped significantly last year with the move to the NL, so maybe he can notch more K's this year.

Doug was the 19th ranked pitcher on ESPN's player rater last year, and here I am getting him with pick 202. I now have a staff od Hamels/Cobb/Cashner/Fister and bullpen of Holland/Storen. I be there alot of major league teams that would be happy with that.

I can now focus on filling some hitting voids the next few rounds.

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 12:25

10.06 Neftali Feliz, RP, TEX
Of the dwindling group of closers left, Feliz seemed to have the fewest vultures around him and wasn't already suffering from elbow or shoulders woes. Nothing really to look at here, though. But unless he gets 25 saves, this was a wasted pick.

Was too spooked by injury reports to draft Cobb or Ryu, despite their bigger potential payoff.

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 12:29

11.11 Anibal Sanchez, SP, DET
I can't put off starting pitching any longer, and of a big group of starters who looked more or less equal to me, I went with Sanchez because of solid ratios and it's an odd year, so he's due for 9k/9.

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 13:21

10.13 Leonys Martin OF TEX

I drafted Martin primarily for his contribution in steals. He is a young player with the potential to put up career best stats, so that is a bonus. He is slated to hit leadoff, increasing his runs scored but I'd be satisfied with a repeat of last year, worts and all.

100

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 13:25

11.04 Jimmy Rollins SS LAD

Another pick with steals in mind, but also my third MI. I like to be ahead of the curve on that position. I was waiver between Rollins and Andrus, but that decision was made for me. Rollins is old but still runs and hopefully the move to the Dodgers gives him a boost of revitalization.

101

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 16:00

11.13 Pence, Hunter, OF, SF
Even though he will miss the first 2-4 weeks of the season, ESPN has him ranked #80 overall, and Rotowire has him ranked #102. Still available at pick #173, he seems like a great value pick right now. He should still provide 70-80 RBIs & Rs, while adding 10-15 SBs. OBP is lower than my team could use, but won’t drag it down too much.

12.04 Ventura, Yordano, SP, KAN
Like a lot of young guys that throw really hard ... Ventura also walks too many batters. But as he gains experience as the KC ace, hopefully that WHIP will come down, while maintaining a K/9 ratio over 8. Plenty of upside.

102

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 17:33

6.10 Evan Gattis, C, Hou

Power hitting catcher who wont catch. 450 At bats should produce 30 plus homers which will provide me positive returns in rbi's and slug. Will likely gain OF very early in the season and hopefully CI as well for some flexibility. Some injury risk but I couldn't ignore the power potential.

7.07 Ben Revere

I missed out on Hamilton so I was looking for another speedster. Revere allows me to focus on power when possible for the rest of the draft. There seem to be many questions about his bat but he has hit around 300 (ave) for 3 years now. At the point of his career, I think it is what you see is what you get. I expect 330 obp, 350 slug and 45+ steals.

8.10 Danny Santana, SS, Min

This pick is too risky for round 8 but I was feeling some desperation to fill out my middle infielder positions. I went for some hopeful upside with Santana over some more predictable veterans. He could be a washout which I hate as an 8th rounder.... but, he could also continue to hit and patrol center field or shortstop for the Twins. time will tell.

9.07 Melky Cabrera, OF, CHW

Very early to draft a 4th outfielder but I couldn't ignore Melky's unappreciated value. Ignore the Yankee years and 2013 when he had a tumor in his back... still hit 279! I re-evaluated him based on 2011, 2012 and 2014 and couldn't wait any longer to pull the trigger.

103

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 19:35

11.12 Steve Pearce, OF, BAL

Pearce put up a .930 OPS last year over 102 games and is penciled in as the Orioles DH to start the season. While not projected to be quite as good as last year, I think he can come close. He is eligible at 1B and OF, providing valuable roster flexibility.

104

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 20:11

12.05 Erick Aybar, SS, LAA

I had a difficult time deciding what to do with this pick, thinking about a bunch of different options. Finally got frustrated and filled my SS slot with Aybar. He is not a flashy name at this point in his career but for a round 12 shortstop, he contributes a little in all 5 categories.

105

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 20:56

10.08 Molina, Yadier - C -StL
There are not that many top catchers, and perhaps the difference between a top 5 and a 10-15 is negligible, but nothing else appealed to me at this level so I'll grab Yadi now and be done. (probably should have drafted RP2). Molina has a top projected OPS for catchers and is considered a tier-2/3 catcher. I have to start filling the C/MI positions.

11.09 Peralta, Jhonny - SS - StL
Thirteen shortstops taken, got to get on the bandwagon. Will wait one more round got my sp3, lots of interchangables. Should score and drive in the 70s, we're not going to find any MI from here on out to help the ratios

12.08 Ramirez, Aramis - 3B - Mil
Holding off another round on an SP based on the last round. With AriRam, hoping for a bounce-back for this perpetual high rounder. (of course now he is in his late 30s and is retiring). 3B is getting a little thin. His ratios took a hit last season, hoping he goes out on a high note.

106

Evan
ID: 5720121
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 21:17

14.12 Marcus Semien, 2B/SS/3B, OAK

Expected to be the starting shortstop for Oakland, he should get SS eligibility rather quickly; he has 2B/3B already. I did not have a shortstop on my team yet, and his position versatility definitely helps.

Semien has been rising up the rankings due to his strong spring. At this point in this draft, I'm banking on his upside to carry me at SS. His projected OBP is within the .330s and is expected to get his share of HRs and SBs.

107

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 21:20

11.15 Mauer, Joe - MIN - 1B

It's back to trying to fill out the offensive part of my team, I've chosen too many pitchers for my taste at this point. Mauer has been in my queue for awhile, mainly because of his potential OBA. Mauer is still in my queue, mainly I'm sure because of his injury history, lack of SLG potential and lack of C eligibility. That said, we're 175 picks into this draft. Here's hoping for something closer to his .880 OPS in 2013 than his .732 OPS in 2014... with more games played.

12.02 Granderson, Curtis - NYM - OF

Why Curtis here and now? I think I rushed myself but I'm done with pitchers for a pick or three. He's been hot during spring training... does that translate to a .750 or better OPS? YES! It's gonna happen! If I tell myself that does that make it true? He's hitting in the top third of the Mets lineup and doing well this spring. His 20+ home run history is a plus, though that didn't even net him a .400 SLG last year. Come on Curtis, how about a slight uptick from last years stats and 10 SB's from a pick in the 170's?

108

kdl212
ID: 442541815
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 22:45

12.06 Chase Headley, 3B, NYY
Filling my CI slot here before the pickings got truly slim or depended on a big helping of optimism. With Votto and Chris Davis already, I figured a second third baseman was the best choice. Headley is good in this format, and will hopefully provide a .350 OBP and 10 steals, and maybe renewed slugging with a full year in the AL East.

109

beastiemiked
ID: 5911312710
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 22:50

7.08 Jay Bruce, OF, CIN
It's amazing what one bad year can do to a guys value. He got picked at 3.03 last year. Why the drop? He's going into his 28 year old season so it's not father time. His advanced stats have trended downward in the past few years. If he can somehow find his stroke back from 2010-2013 then he's a steal at this pick.

8.09 Alexei Ramirez, SS, CHW
I want a do over. I panicked and picked a SS because I was afraid of being leftover with scraps. This was a mistake as I see guys out there now that aren't are only a small step down from Ramirez.

9.08 Brett Lawrie, 2nd, OAK
This was probably a reach as he's rated low on a lot of lists but his potential is tough to pass on. His projections are very nice but he's always had a problem with health. I'm a big Billy Beane fan and putting my faith into him on this pick.

10.09 Garrett Richards, SP, LAA
He'd be an easy top 15 SP if he didn't get injured last year. He's still rehabbing but it looks like he'll be ready a week or two after the season has started. What's not to love about this kid? If he stays healthy, he'll be much better than my #1(Shields)

11.08 Gregory Polanco, OF, PIT
He has potential to be a top 10 outfielder. It's hard to find that sky is the limit potential at this point in the draft. He should get plenty of at bats and 20+ steals should be a given.

12.09 Jake Odorizzi, SP, TAM
A possible breakout candidate this year. Hopefully Tampa can get him some wins.

110

holt
ID: 222581821
Tue, Mar 24, 2015, 23:54

11.16 Jean Segura, SS, MIL

Still needed a SS and I also wanted to keep boosting my SB count (I got a nice start with Altuve but need to keep drafting some speed to finish near the top in that category). Segura dropped from 44 SB and .752 OPS to 25 SB and .614 OPS from 2013 to 2014. I guess the league adjusted to him. Segura has acknowledged this. There must be 50 articles out there that mention Segura, coaches, GM, etc. being confident that Segura will bounce back this season (he did have some unusual difficulties to deal with last season). Maybe he will, maybe he won't. That's why he was available at 11.16.

12.01 Collin McHugh, SP, HOU

3.11 ERA, 1.02 whip, and 157K in 154.2 IP last season. The story is that Astro analysts identified that McHugh's curveball had one of the highest spin rates in the league, so they picked him off the scrap heap and changed his approach. His stats previous to 2014 are bad, but the Astros identified his unusually high spin rate, got him to scrap his sinker (replaced with high hard 4-seamers, which supposedly counteracts hitters who hit low sinking stuff well), and got him to throw more of his awesome breaking stuff. I don't know if the league will successfully adjust and McHugh will stink once again or if he will suddenly compete for a Cy Young. It's all interesting enough that I want him on my teams though. Rd 12 is a cheap price to pay.

111

RJ
ID: 54219222
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 00:12

10.15 Marcell Ozuna, OF, MIA
I wanted to add another young and promising OF to my lineup. He played in 150+ games last year in his first full season. He is just 24 so there's definitely room for growth.

11.02 Chase Utley, 2B, PHI
Still didn't have a 2B and didn't want to be too thin at the position. The risk is definitely there but he's been relatively healthy the last couple of years. If he can even crack 120+ games I could platoon with a replacement level player and be okay.

12.15 Joe Nathan, RP, DET
As bad as Nathan was last year, he still retained the closer role. Plus looking at his career stats he's consistently around saved 30+ saves in all but one season since 2006. Here's hoping he can hang around for another year.

13.02 Justin Verlander, SP, DET
I can't see him being as bad as last year. If anything, he'll be a nice inning eater as he's been a workhouse throughout his career. Plus he only had two truly terrible years, last year and in 2008. He bounced back in a big way from that 2008 campaign and I'm hoping he does the same in 2015.

14.15 Ken Giles, RP, PHI
I wanted to protect my investment in Papelbon, plus Pappy is likely to get traded at some point this year with Giles all but guaranteed the closer role. If anything Giles will give me razor sharp ratios along with the occasional rogue save/win. Definitely one of the better non closer RPs in this year's field.

15.02 Pedro, Alvarez, 3B, PIT
I found myself still without a CI. Alvarez isn't great by any means but should hopefully give me some bargain power numbers. He's only a year removed from a 30 homer season.

112

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 06:02

13.09 Quintana, Jose - CWS - SP
Had a 2 pitcher queue with Homer Bailey picked right before me. Nothing flashy with Quintana, just hoping for double digit wins and to keep his WHIP around 1.2. I usually draft my SP3 by round 10 or 11, this is a little later than usual.

14.08 Crisp, Coco - Oak -OF
Don't want to ditch steals totally but even with Coco's expected 20 I'm only projecting to about 60 right now with my roster. Opportunities will have to present themselves in the free agent pool or trade market.

113

Evan
ID: 5720121
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 08:04

15.05 Scott Kazmir, SP, OAK

I needed another starter on my team and I saw Kazmir's name out there. Always was a fan and he had an All-Star season last year in Oakland. His k-rate may have dropped last season but his WHIP dropped 0.2 points which is a significant improvement over prior seasons.

Let us see if he can put it together for another year.

114

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 08:44

12.03 Mike Napoli, 1B, BOS
we all know that Napoli is a good player at this point. the problem with him is that he is not getting younger and may get injured at some point. until then he should provide me with a solid OBP/SLG and about average R/RBI's. I just need to have a replacement player in case he really needs to sit out multiple games.

115

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 08:44

13.03 Michael Cuddyer, OF, NYM
it was time to get a 2nd real outfielder (Zobrist also qualifies). out of the remaining OF I liked Cuddyer the most.
he has above average SLG, just about average OBP and a better job security than most others. That is what you need at this point in a non-keeper league.

116

filthy
ID: 4157202
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 10:44

8.16 Tyson Ross, SP, SD

19 picks away the night before this pick so I shuffled my fave 19 remaining names to get through the turn. Shortstop, outfield and closer feeling like the top fit for my roster this turn.

Morneau, Jansen, Storen, Santana & Benoit among my higher ranking names that didn't make it to me. All were queued up higher than the pitchers I ended up with here. Major shuffling as the pick approached me, and after Benoit went, I was pretty set on choosing Ross and Blackmon here.

Once my turn came up, I spent 20 minutes trying to find reasons I'd like somebody else over Ross for the first pick, since I really prefer to pass on pitching when possible. Ross was barely edged out by Gray in my last round of picks though, so there turned out to be no better selection with my first pick this time around.

Another one of the better young arms in the game. Looking for continued growth out of Ross this season.

117

filthy
ID: 4157202
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 11:23

9.01 Jacob deGrom, SP, NYM

Debated removing my self imposed 20 minute time limit as I was considering selecting Charlie Blackmon here, but my gut has negotiated a pretty good deal with my brain for this draft so I decided to race the clock.

Still didn't satisfy my goal to fill shortstop, outfield or closer with this round of picks, and beyond Danny Santana didn't like any shortstop picks yet. Blackmon's season faded last year and the Rockies have a super crowded cast of backup outfielders ready to pounce in like Blackmon did last year, so I rushed to find a better option. Gordon was the next outfielder considered but has some questions himself currently. As Gordon passed Blackmon on my queue, I decided that I preferred deGrom over both outfielders and he became the backup option as I considered closer options.

Ross, deGrom and Wood were just above the middle of my initial queue as standouts to me among remaining arms. If not for having 2 SP already while setting the queue, all would have been just behind Storen & Santana on my initial 19 man queue instead.

The only closers left were behind these starters on my initial queue because there were question marks around them. Cecil, Perkins & Doolittle all seemed like sweet picks as I lowered expections despite some current injury questions. I preferred to go with one of the lefty closers over Gordon, but I was really flip-flopping over which one I liked best.

If the Jays could have gone a day later on naming Cecil closer would have been nice. At my pick, there wasn't even much news about him throwing yet, let alone talk of an official closer selection. To me, he's a no-brainer to be great at closer, but doubt about giving him the role always seems to linger, even during past Jays closer injuries, so I passed on Cecil. Between Doolittle and Perkins with confirmed jobs but slight injuries, Doolittle seemed to be ahead in health so he was the standout of my closer hunt.

All of this debate took place in just under 20 minutes, so as I was switching my selection to Doolittle, the page updated to select deGrom for me! Bittersweet moment, as I feel deGrom will give better value than many closers this year, and I also feel that my staff is suddenly looking like a big strength. Expecting deGrom to not be so lights out this year, but to still be solid and provide big strikeout numbers.

SS, OF, RP will have to wait I guess?!

118

filthy
ID: 4157202
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 11:38

10.16 Sean Doolittle, RP, OAK

Doolittle was obvious top on my queue for this round of picks. Seconds away from being picked last time around. Andrus, Peralta, Segura, Rollins were high on the list, and the top wish here would have been to pair Doolittle with Cecil despite the offensive needs. Gordon and Blackmon were still strongly considered, but a fear of shortstop options running out soon was starting to set in. Utley and some more lower end closer options filled out the queue as I waited.

Wishing it was Cecil that survived after the Jays news, but glad that Doolittle made it at least. First reliever choice to end the 10th doesn't leave much to pick from, but I think there is potential that he has the role for most of the season and provides good value here.

119

filthy
ID: 4157202
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 11:46

11.01 Elvis Andrus, SS, TEX

Andrus has potential to stand out among the remaining shortstops, so he was my top shortstop ranked this time around. Peralta ranked right behind him would have been nice too. Speed and a slightly above terrible bat as the floor, but even slight improvement with the bat would make Andrus a top shortstop again isn't a bad ceiling. Peralta is probably a safer pick if I was around to manually pick here, but it's a coin toss really. Glad to have got a reliever and shortstop this time around. Another reliever, catcher, outfield now the goal for next round of queues.

120

filthy
ID: 4157202
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 11:57

12.16 Russell Martin, C, TOR

OBP monster at catcher? Yes please! Had Martin at the top of my queue as soon as I got home to see my last round of picks. Might have bumped him into my pick that round had I been around to manually pick actually. I thought for sure he'd be gone but glad having him atop my queue didn't jinx things for me.

121

filthy
ID: 4157202
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 12:35

13.01 Dalton Pompey, OF, TOR

With 26 picks away the night before this round of picks, I loaded up the queue big time to get through. Martin, Pompey, and a starting pitcher were front of the queue from being ranked in the last round beyond where they could possibly be picked. Among some names for later, in the unsorted section. Along with some closer candidates and some other starting pitchers that were moved out of reach after I had 4 SP but still undrafted so still in the queue.

After re-sorting, Martin remained at the top, with Peralta still in there as an MI pick, and Odor also in the MI running. No real standout CI options to me at this time. Eaton, LCain, KDavis, Pompey top OF considered. Variety of low end closer and high end setup options as well.

After choosing a catcher, it felt like outfield had to be the call. Pompey had remained second in my queue, but it seemed kinda ridiculous early for him still. My next round of picks might be slightly early for him even, but after Pollock and Santana backfired by waiting, I couldn't chance it with Pompey.

Brain says Eaton was a better outfield pick here, as Pompey will likely see struggles at some point due to the grind even if he produces as well as I'm expecting. Eaton's career path is probably in line with what Pompey should aim to acheive, but I'm rolling the dice that the Jays can catch lightning with Pompey's upside.

Audition last year was a nice beginning, and he seems like he'll get playing time in a great offense. The Jays gave him a look down the stretch rather than let the pending free agent showcase himself further, then traded away the previous centerfield prospect to pave a fast track for Pompey. These are all comforting signs that they really believe he will succeed. They even had Vernon Wells sort of mentoring him! Pompey should be very prepared and also eased into things enough that he could really make a quick splash.

Canadian Blue Jays are my weakness. Seeing someone else draft them would sting, so I just couldn't let Pompey pass me by. Hoping it works out better than Lawrie did for me last year! Doubling my odds with this round of picks at least.

123

kdl212
ID: 442541815
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 14:15

13.11 Mike Fiers, SP, MIL
Not pleased with this choice, because he's already got a sore shoulder and I had to watch my queue disappear one by one as we made our way through the 13th round. 7 of the 9 picks before me were starting pitcher. I had figured there'd be a mini-run, but I didn't think everyone's list would look exactly like mine. By now, there's usually divergence. But there went Kennedy, Liriano, Bailey, Quintana, Salazar and Fister - leaving me too chose between Fiers, Smyly and Taijuan. Again, I steered away from a beloved Mariner to avoid a jinx.

Fiers was insane last year, though, so maybe this works out. I'm guessing it doesn't, and I'll wish I had picked Adam Eaton instead.

124

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 16:17

13.13 Odor, Rougned, 2B, TEX
As the youngest player in baseball for most of the 2014 season, Odor was able to achieve 9 HRs, 4 Steals, 40 Runs, and 50 RBIs in about 2/3 of a season. The Texas starting 2B should see significant improvement in all categories. A nice add for the MI slot on my team.

14.04 Butler, Billy, 1B OAK
After a monster 2012 season and no reason to expect any downgrading, Butler has gotten worse in both 2013 and 2014. Moving to Oakland this season does not inspire any confidence I’ll see his HR numbers increase, but if he can get his BB% back in line with his career averages and find some of that line-drive power ... he’ll be a good pick at #212 for me.

125

kdl212
ID: 442541815
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 16:39

14.06 Brandon McCarthy, SP, LAD
We've now entered my favorite part of the draft - the third third. During the first third (through rounds 6 or 7), I target best available, without ignoring speed and pitching. In the second third (the next 7 rounds or so), I try to fill in my roster so there are no glaring gaps. In the third third (the next 7). I go after "my guys" even if it means reaching. This is where the magic happens that keeps you in RIBC. Last year I got Tyson Ross and Melky Cabrera in the third third.

[The fourth third (the last 3 or 4 rounds) is pure speculation or contingency drafting, the guys we drop either before the season starts or when injuries make it necessary.]

So I begin the third third with Brandon McCarthy. He's not young. He's never had a great season. He's had injuries. But I've just got a feeling that it's all going to come together for him this year in Chavez Ravine - a low whip, enough strikeouts, and all the wins you could eat.

126

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 19:33

15.09 Gyorko, Jedd - 2B - SD
There are other choices for second baseman, and here is another 'bounce back or bust' candidate. Not much help in the steals or ratios but maybe can help in the run production.

16.08 Boxberger, Brad - Tam - RP.
Maybe I should have got a RP2 in round 10. With one closer, now I'm grabbing a likely set up player who will get Tampa save ops in April while McGee is out. At least when Brad is a set up player his KIP and WHIP may make him a worthy roster hold season long.

127

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 20:48

13.12 Matt Shoemaker, SP, LAA

Feeling some pressure to fill in my pitching staff, I select Shoemaker who is coming off a great 2014 season where he had a 3.04 ERA and 1.07 WHIP with nice win totals and Ks over 138 innings. I don't really expect him to duplicate those numbers but I think he can still be an effective pitcher.

128

holt
ID: 222581821
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 21:03

13.16 Drew Smyly, SP, TB

Probably would have taken Yan Gomes or Salvador Perez if they had made it to me. Grabbed my SP4 while there were still a few names I was interested in. Smyly has a career MLB ERA of 3.26 and whip of 1.17 with 8.4K/9 in 326 IP. He's only 25. Weaver and Kazmir also crossed my mind but Smyly has better upside in my opinion. He's still coming back from some shoulder tendonitis but it's a long season. He'll be in the rotation soon enough.

14.01 Asdrubal Cabrera, SS, TB

I had to hold my nose while making this pick. A better bat like Lind, Avisail Garcia, K Davis would have felt better but I still had only two middle infielders. I figure Cabrera for something like .310/.400, 70 R, 60 RBI, 10 SB. 14th round, what do you expect? Those numbers really aren't much different from SS's who were going a few rds earlier. This doesn't end my search for MI's but at least Cabrera is consistent and has a starting job right now.

129

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 21:17

14.05 Taijuan Walker, SP, SEA

Taijuan Walker's impressive spring caught my attention and after doing a little research, I decide to pick him here. He is a former top prospect who was injured much of last year, but has seemingly put that behind him and has made some changes to his pitching repertoire. I am hoping he continues his successful spring and has a breakout season.

130

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 21:18

13.15 Salvador, Perez - KC - C

Mesoraco had been in my queue for awhile, I kept passing on him. "Mild concussion" has been the report this spring and I couldn't bring myself to spend a draft pick higher than this on a potential head injury risk. Perez logged nearly 160 games last year... the latter half of which sucked, but still... durability from the C spot can't be discounted at this point. An injury free season will equal a +.750 OPS, I'll take it here especially if he gets me nearly 162 games played.

14.02 Chisenhall, Lonnie -CLE - 3B

In rounds 13 and 14 I sought to fill lineup holes. 13 wasn't a tough pick for me, 14 was. The leftovers at 3B were weak with only Castellanos and Alvarez queued up for me besides Lonnie at this point. I was trying to hold off on another SP for now too. He had a +.900 OPS prior to the ASB in 2014, and a sub-.700 one after. The truth has to be somewhere in the middle, right?

15.15 Holland, Derek - TEX - SP

In his short stint back towards the end of 2014 he had an ERA of about 1.50 and a WHIP just north of 1.00... those numbers should translate out quite nicely over a full season. Ok, not. He's had "shoulder discomfort" so far this year so this pick may come back to bite me in the ass. Or... for a 4th SP in a league this deep, Holland may just give me some decent peripherals, quality innings and +/- 175 K's. Please?

131

Evan
ID: 5720121
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 21:29

16.12 Carlos Beltran, OF, NYY

An obvious injury risk at 37/38 years old with diminishing skills. However, where are you going to find a hitter at this point in the draft who will likely hit 3rd in the order?

It was only in 2013 where he hit .294 with 24 homeruns in St. Louis. I'm hoping that the removal of bone spurs in his elbow keeps him on the field. He is still a very valuable hitter when healthy and I'm hoping for a nice bounceback year.

I also picked him because he is one of my favorite players of the last decade. I wanted him in pinstripes when he was a free agent in 2005 but the Yankees still liked Bernie roaming center and wanted to put their money in Randy Johnson. The Mets stole one from the Yankees that offseason...

132

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 23:12

12.13 Wil Myers OF SD

Looking to fill out my OF with some upside and potential. He has the prospect pedigree and it's time he delivers on that. Ive got a bunch of old guys on my team so it's fun to balance that out with the young guys who could easily outperform their draft position.

133

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 23:14

13.04 Ian Kennedy SP SD

My second Padre in a row. Kennedy offers a good supply of K's at this stage in the draft and starts to give my starting staff some depth.

134

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 23:18

14.13 Alex Rios Of KC

Old and has an odd history in fantasy of being great and then being bad and then being great. He was bad last year. He says it's because of his injury, so I'm hoping this year he is great. My team looks like it stinks with OBP so he's not hurting things that much there. The value of his steals should give my team a boost.

135

Uptown Bombers
ID: 332561418
Wed, Mar 25, 2015, 23:26

15.04 Nick Castellanos 3B DET

My game of chicken with third base is over. Going into the previous pick I had Alvarez and Castellanos in mind and couldn't decide between the two of them so I took Rios instead. The decision was made for me and while this is probably a bit early for Nick, since I haven't drafted closers I'd rather fill the few holes in my starting lineup. There are a few catchers I rate equally and think one will come back to me. Meanwhile Castellanos is young and full of upside.

136

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 10:07

14.14 Jered Weaver, SP, LAA
time for a starting pitcher.
I looked through a few options, especially into pitchers that were successful in the past and who could be good again this year. Jered Weaver is such a player. If he can do similar than last season (one of his worst) where he had a 3.59 ERA and 1.21 WHIP I am happy.

137

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 10:07

15.03 Avisail Garcia, OF, CWS
I am still looking for outfielders to accompany Stanton and Cuddyer. Garcia has the potential to be great, but he has not shown it yet. There is talk that this season might be the season. I'll take the gamble at this point. there are probably safer picks available at OF, but the potential is definitely higher for Garcia. Avisail, suprise me. in a positive sense.

138

Evan
ID: 101522414
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 11:16

17.05 Mark Teixeira, 1B, NYY

I didn't want to make this pick but I needed another 1B. The comments are the same as my last selection of Carlos Beltran. He is past his prime and an injury risk. Although Beltran is a better pure hitter, Teixeira should be hitting in the middle of the lineup again providing nice RBI opportunities.

The average will never be great again (thanks a lot... shift) and he'll probably miss a bunch of games due to injury. Felt he was worth the pick though.

139

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 12:54

15.11 Jake McGee, RP, TB
Rolling the dice here on a pitcher coming off elbow surgery who hasn't yet thrown at 100%. He can take all of April off, as long as he comes back May 1 and is inserted right into the closer role. 25 saves with top notch strikeouts and ratios will probably end up being more than I get out of my 10th round Neftali Feliz pick. Or, I'll get strung along with a series of setbacks, wasting a roster spot until finally around the end of July he calls it off, and I finally dump him (yes, Brad Lidge, I still haven't forgiven you).

140

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 15:33

15.13 Latos, Mat, SP, MIA
Rotowire has written ” Latos is a strong bet to bounce back to his near-elite production if healthy this season.” The key words in that sentence are the last 4. Latos is a wild-card in 2015, after a lost 2014. It sounds like his velocity is not where he wants it yet, but it’s only Spring Training. Hopefully he won’t spend much time on the DL, and will prosper in a more pitcher-friendly Miami stadium.

16.04 Baez, Javier, 2B/SS, CHC
Last week, there were still questions if Baez would start the season in Chicago. But the news broke last night that he’s made the team as starting 2B and backup SS. In 2014, he produced the lowest contact rate among all players with at least 200 at-bats, but he was also 21 years old and can crush the baseball. Manager Joe Maddon said “this is one of the best young players I’ve seen. Period.” If strikeouts were a category, he might be a top-10 player. But they are not, so he will make my OBP suffer instead, while supplying the other 4 categories.

Post-blurb edit - Now the news is ... Despite some reports that Baez claimed he was told he'll make the roster, manager Joe Maddon has "no idea where that came from,"

141

mailedfoot
ID: 128391010
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 16:25

15.12 Rusney Castillo, OF, BOS

Castillo is in the middle of a muddled OF situation for Boston, but I am thinking that Victorino will not be able stay healthy and Castillo will be the regular RF at some point. He projects as a as someone who can put up a .325 plus OBP with some power and speed, so I am hoping he will contribute in all 5 categories. It remains to be seen if he will get the playing time to warrant this pick.

142

mailedfoot
ID: 128391010
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 16:29

16.05 Kennys Vargas, UTL, MIN

Vargas, a switch hitter, is slated to get the lion’s share of the DH at bats for the Twins. He has put up good minor league numbers and did okay in 230 major league at bats late last season. I’m thinking he will provide good power and counting stats hitting in the middle of the Twins lineup. He’s having a good spring so am hoping that will continue. It would be nice if he gains 1B eligibility at some point but I will work around it for now.

143

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 18:17

16.06 Michael Saunders, OF, TOR
The third third continues with the Condor, who was once supposed to be out until the All-Start break but now looks to be back by mid-April. Run out of Seattle, he's talented enough to put up an .800 OPS in Toronto (where everyone hits homers) with 10 steals. If so, then I found a gem here at pick 246. And that's the point of the third third. A more conservative me would've targeted someone a bit more safe here, but there really isn't a lot of safe production available anymore. Since these are the picks that can win leagues, and I went for upside.

145

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 21:12

14.07 Oswald Arcia OF MIN

As my 4th outfielder, I think I got a good one with Arcia. Oswald strikes out to much but has shown tremendous power. After being slowed at the beginning of last year with a wrist injury, hestroked 15 HR's and posted a slugging % of .517. Unfortunately his OBP was only .290.

Arcia is only is only 23, and I saw a survey on one site where 2 separate writers listed his as most likely to have a " power breakout " this year.

I'm hoping.

15.10 Michael Morse OF MIA

I've been searching for a first basemen ( or even a 3B, with the expected 1B eligibility of Zimmerman ), but never could quite pull the draft lever. None seemed right at the right time.

I'm not sure it's the right time for Morse either. But none the less he will be manning 1B for my team. He had a decent year last year for the Giants,. and now moves to play first for the Marlins.

His OBP isn't the best, which means he fits right in on team SANFORDORS, but I see 20-25 HR's in the wind and 70 RBI's. Can you hear me Mike?

16.07Brian McCann C NYY

I need a catcher, but fully thought of waiting as I didn't see any of the remaining backstops as being significantly different. But one thing with McCann sets him apart, you can pencil him in for around 500 at bats. He'll fill in at 1st ( 16 starts there last year ) or even DH.

As much as the short porch in Yankee Stadium helps his power numbers, the switch to the AL seems to have dampened his OBP. Maybe it's the " shift " some teams deploy, or maybe just a down year, but maybe he can resurrect to the .350 mark of 2 years ago. But the power numbers are still there, as he notched 24 HR's and 75 RBI's last year. I'll take similar prodiction this year from my catcher

146

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Thu, Mar 26, 2015, 21:23

17.10 John Lackey SP STL

Nothing sexy about this pick

Lackey is my fifth SP. He won 14 games last year, splitting the season between BOS and STL. He is now settled in with a good Cardinal team, and he will contribute W's, K's and %'s that won't kill me.

Now 36 and a few years removed from Tommy John surgery, I read a quote that someone wrote that his stuff is as good now as it was when he was yen years younger. I think I'm getting excelant value here

147

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 04:07

10.10 Reed, Addison, RP, Ari

I had missed out on an earlier closer run and felt I needed to get one here. Reed was at the top of my depth chart despite some shoulder soreness this spring.

11.07 Archer, Chris, SP, TAM

My general pitching strategy in RIBC drafts is to take one of the top guys then draft starters instead of batters when I see value. That is the case with this pick. I'll be happy with 2013 and 2014 numbers but I see some potential upside in Archer.

148

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 06:24

12.10 Brandon Phillips, 2B, Cin

Should be a safe pick as he has been healthy for his career other than last year's thumb injury. In this format if a MI goes down with injury there is often nothing on waivers even worth rostering so hopefully Phillips is healthy. His batted ball distance dipped last year, it could rebound or continue downward - Phillips is 33. Will be happy with 160+ RBI and runs, with OBP north of 315 and a slug of around 400. Steals have disappeared the last two years but a guy can hope for 10.

13.07 Yan Gomes, C, CLE

The rarely employed draft a 2nd catcher in the 13 round strategy! We'll see how this playes out. Gattis will hopefully gain OF and CI and I will be able to put both of these bats in my lineup without using my UTL. Despite the roster issues this may cause me, I felt Gomes was one of the safest power bats that also has upside left to draft. I will be happy with career averages: OBP 318, SLUG 463.

149

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 06:46

16.02 Jennings, Desmond - TB - OF

Looking to fill out my starting lineup and I needed another OF. I'm a bit shy on speed so I was considering some with SB potential, including Carl Crawford. Jennings best OPS so far is .748, and I'm thinking he'll be closer to that then last years .697; combine that with the feeling that Kevin Cash is going to open the team up on the base paths more than Joe Madden did lately and Jennings looks worthwhile at this point. Plus... Scott Boras is his agent and he's eligible for arbitration after this season, that's normally motivating factor enough for his clents to have a career year.

17.15 Alcantara, Arismendy - CUBS - 2B

Again I went for SB potential here. He also looks like he'll hit for power, and though he played CF more often then not, he works for fantasy purposes at 2B and MI. I see "super utility" being used to describe his potential use for the Cubs and, knowing Joe Madden's tendancies, he'll be in the lineup a lot.

150

Evan
ID: 101522414
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 09:13

18.12 Jarrod Dyson, OF, KAN

This is one of my favorite picks, although I'm probably a little too excited for a team's 4th outfielder. But look at this kid... he is a one category monster with SBs. Is he that different than someone like Ben Revere selected many rounds ago? Revere has an ADP of 139, Dyson's is 338.

The Kansas City Royals led the majors in stolen bases last season. We know Yost likes to run. In only 290 plate appearances last season, Dyson snagged 36 bags. Again, he is not a starting outfielder but with his terrific glove I can't imagine him rotting on the bench. I don't have much faith in Rios to hold the job and/or Gordon to stay healthy all season. Dyson will get his opportunities to play and I expect him to shine.

I have a soft spot for the kid because he took my team out of the doldrums last year with his base-stealing. If he gets regular playing time, is it that crazy that he steals 50 bags? You can't ask for much more in the 18th round.

151

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 11:30

16.14 Casey McGehee, 3B, SF
out of my hitters I am lacking at backups for 3B, SS and OF. the pool at serviceable 3B and SS gets thinner and thinner. not only are most of the remaining players way below average, they are not even assured a permanent starting spot.
This is not the case for McGehee. he should start and will probably bat 6th on most days, which means there is potential for more RBI's compared to other players that need to bat lower. there is hope that his poor SLG won't kill my team but I drafted a lot of good players in that department which should cover this deficiencies.

152

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 11:31

17.03 Jed Lowrie, SS, HOU
just like McGehee I searched for a backup where I don't have one yet. SS was missing, so I better get a player now before it is too late and I am stuck with a poor option are someone who I need to take a gamble on. Lowrie should get a lot of playing time to get me enough R/RBI for his position. his OBP will be near my team average and his SLG is not that bad compared to other available players.

If only some of these players would steal more bases. I am a few short right now. either that or Dee Gordon needs to steal 100 this season.

153

Evan
ID: 101522414
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 11:56

19.05 Wilin Rosario, C, COL

Still hadn't filled in my C spot. If I couldn't grab one of the top catchers, I would be the last one to select one.

I'm happy with Rosario. He is having a good spring and should play some 1B with the Rockies trying to get him some at bats. He is a potential high value pick from the catcher position.

I considered waiting til my next selection since the rest of the owners had catchers around the turn. Guess its time to fill holes!

154

kdl212
ID: 3927222
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 14:16

17.11 Brad Miller, SS, SEA
I finally gave in and drafted a Mariner. This was certainly too early for Miller, but he had the highest upside of the remaining scrap heap at SS, and I needed someone behind Tulo. Had Jose Ramirez or Lowrie made it to me, I would've picked them over Miller.

155

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 16:03

17.13 Aoki, Nori, OF, SF
He’s got a decent OBP, steals bases, scores runs, and will hopefully be batting lead-off for SF. Not a sexy pick, but I’m happy to have another player with a full-time job.

18.04 Crawford, Brandon, SS, SF
It’s likely earlier than Crawford should be drafted, but since I just read I might still lose my starting SS to the minors, I need a replacement. He’s got a decent OBP for the 276th pick, has a little pop, and also has a full-time job.

156

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 19:28

18.06 Matt Wieters, C, BAL
If things break right, he comes back having missed just the first week of the season, and I've gotten a top 10 catcher at a nice discount. The tendinitis setback in his Tommy John elbow isn't wonderful news, but I'm drafting in these teen rounds like an optimist. The simple truth is that there are a dozen catchers left, all of whom will get 400 at-bats and produce a max of 50 runs and 55 rbis. Only Wieters has the potential to significantly out-produce that.

157

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 19:43

17.12 Joe Smith, RP, LAA

Selected Smith as a handcuff for Street, trying to corner the market on Angel saves. Smith pitched well last year and notched 15 saves himself. I would rather be addressing other needs with this pick but Street hasn't looked the best so far and I decided to protect my investment.

158

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Fri, Mar 27, 2015, 19:55

18.05 Mike Zunino, C, SEA

Selected Zunino to fill my C slot. He has shown decent power in his career so far but has had trouble making contact. He's been hitting decent in spring training so I decided to give him a shot to start the season.

159

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 03:58

14.16 Tyler Clippard, RP, OAK

Odor, WDavis, Giles, Castellanos, Saunders were also strongly considered with this round of picks. With WDavis, Giles & Clippard ranked atop my queue, I thought I could land 2 relievers with this pass. With Davis & Giles picked before my turn, Clippard became the top choice for me here. Nice to combine him with Doolittle and likely corner the A's saves market.

160

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 04:01

15.01 Lorenzo Cain, OF, KC

Would've preferred 2 relievers this time, or Odor rather than Cain, but I had Cain ahead of Castellanos/Saunders and others in my queue so it's not a big heartbreak. Cain kind of busted out at the end of last year after showing flashes for the last couple seasons. Hoping he can turn all that talent into some stats this year.

161

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 04:07

18.14 DJ LeMahieu, 2B, COL
I still needed a backup at MI. LeMahieu fits the bill. as stated earlier the valuable options are getting thinner and I better get one of the few remaining ones before the pool is dry. LeMahieu has the additional plus that he plays everyday for the Rockies and that he steals more bases than most of my other players. And I am lacking in steals right now.

162

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 04:08

19.03 Matt Cain, SP, SF
after picking some hitters in a row it is time to look at the other side.
I'm going with the same pattern as a few rounds ago with Jered Weaver: take a pitcher who had success in past and hope for repeat. Matt Cain was outstanding from 2009 to 2012. he is still relatively young at age 30 and I hope that his ERA will be below 4.00. something like 3.70 would be ok, anything lower would be great value at this point. his K numbers are solid but not spectacular. The positive thing is that he pitches for the Giants which may translate to more wins. but only if he pitches like I expect him too.

163

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 08:01

16.16 Joakim Soria, RP, DET

Was pretty stuck on a CI & RP this time around. Semi-punting the save chase and possible April hole at CI with the options drying up fast here. Didn't wanna add a 5th SP yet with Fernandez, Bauer, Sanchez, Duffy, Paxton all still in play.

Very least, an RP was going to be chosen this pass, and Soria stood out most for me. Nathan is high on my list of potential C-Losers this year, so picking his setup man seems obvious.

164

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 08:09

17.01 CJ Cron, 1B, LAA

Really had trouble finding any CI that I liked beyond Cron, with promising spring showing being the only reason he stood out from the rest. Showed flashes last year, has the pedigree, so it feels like he might be able to show extended flashes this year as he adjusts better to the grind.

Watched some real good picks pass by after this though. Fernandez, Bauer, Duffy all sweet. MI got super pillaged, I was thinking about Miller & Ramirez especially. Considered Grandal, Span & JPeralta as well. Was pretty tunnel visioned into CI at this point though.

165

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 08:20

18.16 James Paxton, SP, SEA

Finally starting to feel the starting pitching options thin out. I've talked myself out of Aaron Sanchez enough by this point. Paxton feels like he'll do better to me anyway. Not a bad pick for 5th starter, definitely thought I'd be scraping the barrel by adding a 5th this late. Last year was a good step for Paxton, and I'm expecting another year of solid growth. Potential to be a real horse for Seattle, their rotation is no joke.

166

filthy
ID: 4157202
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 08:27

19.01 Aaron Sanchez, SP, TOR

Rosario, Mercer, Byrd, Qualls were all considered and probably better fits for me, but I just couldn't pass Sanchez up again. Byrd's a good fit but I just don't really like him. Relief is a gamble, so if I'm gonna gamble, why not Sanchez? Mercer seems safe to wait, and there seems to be worry of Rosario being a part timer.

Why not Sanchez? He was making superstars look silly at times in his audition. He could be wild and sit on my bench, but if he remains nasty, then I got a steal at this point in the draft.

167

Evan
ID: 5720121
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 09:00

20.12 Nathan Eovaldi, SP, NYY

A total crapshoot. I have no idea what to expect from him. He is a young innings-eater who throws hard with suspect control but doesn't strike anyone out. His new pitching coach Larry Rothschild is adding a splitter to his repertoire to bring in some more Ks.

He is young enough to make something out of his career and let's see if the Yankees can bring out the best in him.

168

Evan
ID: 5720121
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 09:05

21.05 Didi Gregorius, SS, NYY

My gosh, another Yankee? He is my 6th Yankee selection. Times certainly have changed with the Yankees having no reliable fantasy contributors...

I didn't like this pick but Didi was one of the few starters available at a position of need. I fully expect Semien to by my starting SS but he won't be eligible until he plays enough games. I have no one on my team with SS eligibility, hence... Didi.

He could very well be droppable after Semien gains eligibility. Lets hope for a hot start from Derek Jete... errr.... Didi Gregorius!

169

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 09:26

17.09 Tillman, Chris - SP - Bal
Shoring up the back end of the pitching staff. Tillman had a real good second half which of course I'm hoping is where the trend continues. He has a good K rate for a back end fantasy pitcher, and is the O's 'ace'.

18.08 Bauer, Trever - SP - Cle
Like my 12.09 rationale, shoring up the starting corps. Maybe a bit high on the ratios, but a strong K rate.

19.09 Byrd, Marlon - OF - Cin.
Should see some decent PT with Cincy, very light on OBP, but has pop. With me having a full hitting roster, he's going to be the first one off my bench, or a match up play.

20.08 Peterson, Jace - SS -Atl
If I was writing better rationales this season, I'd be mentioning how I was putting off yet another round grabbing a MI, I really dislike them all. But timing is everything and about a few hours before this pick news came out that Atlanta will be having Jace as their regular second baseman. Now I'm not going to do a "I have a coup dance, the guy is an unproven major leaguer, but Jace did steal a load in the minors, and I may have found a source of steals for my team. Worst case, he's no better or worse than the other 8 MI taken in this block of 20 or so picks.

170

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 10:45

16.13 Travis d'Arnaud C NYM

After the top catchers went off the board, there were several who seemed fairly even. At this point, the list of those was dwindling. I considered Grandal before choosing d'Arnaud. He had a really good season after coming back from the minors and I'm hoping that served as a "light bulb" moment for him that continues into this year and helps him demonstrate why he was considered such a big time prospect. Reports that Grandal lost the confidence of the pitching staff last year influenced me, as did being able to root for a Met, but I would have been content with either of them at this stage in the draft.

171

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 10:54

17.04 Kevin Quackenbush RP SD

By now it is fairly obvious that I don't have any closers. I never intend to do this, but just refuse to draft a closer earlier than I feel is comfortable. As a result, I have ended up without closers in this format quite often over the last few years. That means that trying to nab middle relievers that might become closers and who offer good ratios becomes a significant part of my goal in the last third of the draft. There are many of those players available here. Truth be told, I probably should have taken Latroy Hawkins and then my catcher with this pick since Grandal also survived the turn, but such is life. In either case, Quackenbush fits my target profile. Benoit has not shown signs of cracking, but he is old.

172

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 11:00

18.13 Carlos Rodon SP CWS

When I made this pick, Rodon was fresh off his latest spring start and had pitched his best game so far. I was certainly swayed by the raves of that outing. This morning, I've read that Ventura expects Rodon to start in AAA. That's disappointing, but I figure that Rodon is likely headed to the majors sooner than later and his upside still feels worth the gamble. That news did make me wonder whether I should have taken Aaron Sanchez, who was also on my radar, instead.

173

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 11:02

19.04 Sergio Romo RP SF

Just like Quackenbush, Romo promises to be in consideration for saves if the closer in front of him falters or gets hurt while still contributing help in the ratios. It's worth noting that Romo lost the closer job last year but seems to have rebounded and so might end up back in that position at some point this year.

174

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 11:10

20.13 Angel Pagan OF SF

I've tried to focus on steals for a good bit of my draft, and while I feel comfortable in that category, it made sense to me to fill one of my OF reserves with someone who can add to the focus if needed. Pagan is coming off a down year and is already headed in the wrong direction of his career. But he still offers value, as someone who might end up batting leadoff. When healthy, Pagan likely offers the same kind of profile as my round 14 selection, Alex Rios, which is more damning of that pick than anything else.

175

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 11:15

21.04 Jon Niese SP NYM

Niese is just about average in most respects. He offers little upside. But after reading that Rodon was likely not going to start in the majors, i wanted another SP who was secured in his rotation position. Niese brings his own injury concerns to the table, but he is said to be working on a mechanical issue that might reduce the strain on his shoulder. An improved Met club might mean more W's and at this cost, the investment is minimal enough that I can bail without feeling like I've wasted the pick. Even if he repeats last years numbers, as SP #5 or 6, that seems about right.

176

RJ
ID: 54219222
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 11:20

15.02 Pedro Alvarez, CI, PIT
He offered some decent bargain power and I was still without a CI. I saw him as the best value and he still has some upside at only 28. He'll also have 1B eligibility as well after 20 games which adds a bit of versatility. He also improved on his walk rate last year which shouldn't hurt OBP too much. This was pick 226 after all so I didn't know if anyone decent would fall back to me.

16.15 R.A. Dickey, SP, TOR
The ageless knuckleballer has been durable the last few years and provides decent Ks. He's a quality fourth starter who should pitch around 200 innings for my ball club with modest ratios, average to above average wins, and above average Ks.

17.02 LaTroy Hawkins
The last remaining guy who is actually regaled as the closer for a team. He's 42 years old and has said he's retiring at the end of the year. I know there's obvious risk here as to if he'll retain his role. Still he's been serviceable the last couple of years and the Rockies really don't have anyone better. If I can even get 15-20 saves out of him it's a great value given the draft spot.

18.15 Anthony Gose, OF, DET
I hemmed and hawed for awhile over if I should take Gose or Rajai Davis here. When I read that Gose was being seen as the favorite to leadoff against right handers I figured that meant the bulk of the at bats. There were a lot of guys I was considering here.

19.02 Wily Peralta, SP, MIL
In retrospect I wish I'd taken Rajai here just to solidify the platoon in Detroit. Oh well what's done is done and I got Peralta. What I am most impressed with is that he has made 32 starts in both of his seasons so far. Still some upside here, we'll see.

20.15 Kendall Graveman, SP, OAK
Have only heard good things about him so far. I tend to like Oakland starters as well so this was a good fit.

21.02 Andrelton Simmons, SS, ATL
Pretty much got him just to be a warm body at MI. I was surprised to see that two years ago he was actually rated 14th for MVP in 2013 (probably more to do to his defense but even so.) My big thing here was that he plays a lot of games so he'll be a good enough fill in or bench player if I find someone better on the wire. Jace would have been better but I've learned that your guys are often going to get picked before it gets back to you!

177

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 15:55

14.10 Mejia, Jenrry, RP, NYM

Mejia is currently atop the mets bullpen depth chart.

15.07 Tomas, Yasmany, 3B, Ari

This was pick 231 in the draft. At this point in the draft I saw no risk in gambling on the most recent Cuban power bat to join MLB. Tomas is very hard to predict as there is not enough reliable data to project rookie Cubans. Definite power upside, this pick could make or break my year.

16.10 Travis, Devon, 2B, TOR

Travis will or has won the second base job in Toronto. He is known for his bat so hopefully my MI spot is not a black hole this year.

17.07 Jason Hammel, SP, CHC

Not much upside here but will hopefully provide me some average numbers. I'll be happy with last years totals a furious with 2013s... The safe bet is somewhere in between the two.

178

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 19:39

19.11 Josh Reddick, OF, OAK
I wanted this pick back 2 minutes after making it. Instant drafters remorse. I am going to struggle to field a full squad in April, because Reddick makes 4 of my last 5 picks as guys will start the year on the DL. I'm beginning to realize that I've probably gone overboard on the already-injured and slightly-discounted draft picks.

But if I weather the storm, I get here a middle-of-the-order bat who hasn't yet had his career year. Of course, it's unlikely that someone sitting out March with an oblique injury is looking ahead to a career year. ugh. writing this rationale makes me feel even worse about this wasted pick (though I couldn't pull the trigger on the uninjured but ancient Torii Hunter, or the uninjured but platooning Rajai Davis).

The better play was probably to plug my nose, pick Eric Young Jr., and get as many steals as possible in April before I dumped his .290 OBP.

179

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 20:55

18.02 Rodriguez, Alex - NYY - 3B

Oh why the heck not. I needed one more hitter to fill out my starting lineup, needed another 3B eligible player, he's hitting well this spring and not creating a distraction... could he... maybe... be a worthwhile fantasy player this year? If he has an OPS anywhere near .750 and stays healthy DHing he'll be a steal this late in the draft.

19.15 Lohse, Kyle - MIL - SP

Looking for my fifth SP here, I had a few queued up prior to leaving for work this morning including Paxton, Peralta, Cain and Miley. Lohse was the only one left when my turn came. He should be good for nearly 200 innings with a decent WHIP, hopefully a few K's and an ERA that won't hurt too much.

20.02 Davis, Rajai - DET - OF

This pick was nothing more than a cheap grab at some SB's from the bench. I think I'm light in that category, Davis... if healthy... will help as he's tallied +/- 80 over the last two years.

180

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Sat, Mar 28, 2015, 23:49

19.13 Qualls, Chad, RP, HOU
They have not announced a closer yet in Houston, so I will buy a lottery ticket with pick #301. He had a 43:5 K:BB ratio in 2014 in 51.1 IP, and added 19 saves. May the odds be ever in my favor.

20.04 Santana, Ervin, SP, MIN
Santana will be the #2 starter for Minnesota, and has some decent projections for K/9 and the ratios. Maybe the Ws will follow.

181

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 00:54

20.06 Ike Davis, 1B, OAK
Needed another hitter who wasn't on the DL. Counting on Billy Beane magic here. Ike has had years to get over the Valley Fever. With my upside glasses on, I see a 70/70 season with a .750 OPS. More likely - I drop him for a starting pitcher 13 days into the season.

Once again, almost went outfield, but there were a half dozen guys who all looked the same, so I let them pass in the hopes that others would make the decision for me. The roster crunch I feel at the end of the draft each year is painful. Once again, I see plenty of outfielders, starters and relievers still on the table who I'd be happy to roster (and more than can possibly be drafted), and garbage everywhere else.

Note to future self: don't draft an injured OF like Josh Reddick in the 19th. It's a waste!

182

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 08:59

19.12 Micah Johnson, 2B, CWS

Still needing a MI, I select Michah Johnson. Johnson looks to have the inside track for the White Sox second base position. He has impressed with the bat this spring and has the potential for 25 plus SB and plenty of runs if he can hold the job all year.

183

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 09:16

20.05 Wilmer Flores, SS, NYM

I considered a number of options with this pick and finally decided to take Flores as a backup at SS and depth for MI. Flores wielded an impressive bat in the minors and after a slow start at the major league level last year, he did finish strong the last month. Hoping he carries this over and has a breakout year. I also considered Jace Peterson here and might have actually selected him instead but didn't realize he is SS eligible in ESPN.

184

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 09:27

21.12 Jesse Hahn, SP, OAK

I had a small group of starting pitchers in my queue heading into this pick and Greene and Iglesias were at the top. Seeing them both selected before me, I decided to add Hahn as my fifth starter. He has gotten some preseason buzz from a few writers and will be pitching his home games in a favorable park, so hopefully he comes through.

185

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 10:56

20.14 Kevin Kiermaier, OF, TB
with the need of at least 2 more outfielders it was finally time to at least pick the first of those 2. there are still enough options left to pick in future rounds. the question is do you take one that hits for averages or do you pick a speedster. I went with one that can do both but will probably just be near or below average everywhere. this means I still need another base stealer for my team.

186

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 10:57

21.03 Kyle Hendricks, SP, CHC
with the need of more starting pitchers I looked at ones that are projected to have a good ERA/WHIP (3.70, 1.25) and that were lighting it up in spring training. near the top of my list was Kyle Hendricks. there were a few players higher but I believe they are more likely to survive 26 more picks than Hendricks. we will see if I am right.

187

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 12:42

Sorry for not keeping up with these, been away and spent all day yesterday traveling. At least I was able to keep up with my picks

18.07 J.J. Hardy SS BAL

We do need 3 MI types in this format, and thought I would address it now. There is reason for concern, as Hardy is now 32, and last year had a down year for him by his standards. Prior to that, Hardy had averaged 26 HR's and 75 RBI's in three seasons as an Oriole. I also check last years draft and he was an 8th round selection.

Digging deeper, he didn't go yard until late June, after that hit 9 long balls and drove in 37 over the rest of the season. So what was wrong?

So here we are in round 18. Is Hardy and aging player on the decline, or one that got off to a rugged start, and has bounce back potential. He still plays in a great hitters park, for a great offense, certainly worth a shot here

19.10 Juan Legares OF NYM

As a Yankee fan it's always tough to draft a Met. But I had Juan ranked as the top selection here, and gives me my 5th OFer.

Penciled in as an everyday player for the Mets and batting leadoff, I think it's upside city. Juan improved his average last year 39 points and his OPS 70 points over 2013. That's nice, and maybe a sign of things to come. He might offer more steals than thought as he swiped 9 over the last 18 games last year.

He should get well over 500 plate appearances, and I'm expecting 50 RBI's, 80 runs, and 20-25 SB's. The ratios might not be great, but this is round 19.

Also, he's been tearing it up this spring, not necessarily meaningful, but offers some optimism for continued growth

20.07 Chris Owings SS ARI

Shortly after drafting Harding, I read about some shoulder injury. So what do I do, draft a SS with injury concerns of his own.

Supposedly Chris will be ready for the season opener, but might not have the starting gig at SS. Which means he'd most likely be shifted to 2nd. Owings offers a nice blend of power and spend here, and if he becomes 2nd base eligible, could wind up being a nice pick in round 20

21.10 Tony Watson RP PIT

Relievers in this format are useful, even if they don't offer saves opportunities. They can significantly help with ratios, and offer K's without eating your innings limit. I think I just grabbed one of the better ones.

Watson clearly has no path to closer behind Melancon, short of an injury, but that's OK. He somehow managed 10 W's last year, but I'm not expecting a repeat. He pitched to an ERA of 1.63 and WHIP of 1.02. I'm not expecting a repeat of that either.

But I am expecting more great ratios, better than a K per inning, and a few saves, when Melancon is rested

22.07 Carlos Martinez SP STL

I had Martinez at the top of my queue here, but wasn't sure I wanted to make the pick when I set it up. It wasn't clear as to whether he would be a starter for the Cardinals, or relegated to the bullpen. But I read about an injury to "undrafted ", which could open the fifth SP slot for Carlos.

Carlos is regarded as one of the Cardinal's best young pitchers. Even as a RP, Martinez offers great value, as he has the stuff to start or come out of the bullpen. I think he's worth a shot as our draft winds down.

188

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 12:57

18.10 Duffy, Danny, SP, KAN

Duffy put up great ERA and WHIP numbers last but his advanced stats showed a different - not so pretty story. There is definitely risk that Duffy will not produce an ERA near last years (2.53) but in round 18 you need to gamble.

19.07 Ottavino, Adam, RP, COL

I read that he may be the number one handuff for Hawkins in Colorado. I'm betting against Hawkins, not that this strategy has worked in the past but he is another year older.

20.10 Waldon, Jordon, RP, STL

Number two in the Cardinals pen and should put up excellent peripheral stats.

189

holt
ID: 12262110
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 13:05

15.16 Bobby Parnell, RP, NYM

Parnell should be ready to rejoin the bullpen by mid to late April and there's a good chance that he will be slotted back into the closer role. Mejia is going to have to be lights out to retain the job. Terry Collins has very clearly said that it is Parnell's job to lose, and that once he is back in late april/early may that he will step back into the closer role. I almost took Mejia on my Rd 13/14 turn but I just couldn't do it. I'm more confident that Parnell will have the job.

16.01 Steven Sousa, OF, TB

Sousa hit .350/.432/.590 in AAA last season with 26 steals in 346 AB and was dealt away from WAS where he was blocked. Just turned 25 and he's set to be the starting RF. He's struggling in spring training but Tampa really doesn't have any other option. I don't think they want *undrafted 4th OF* manning RF all year.

190

holt
ID: 12262110
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 13:20

17.16 Carl Crawford, OF, LAD

Still needed more OF's and I never feel bad having Crawford in my lineup (it's when he's on the bench that it sucks). Crawford still has wheels and can still hit. .300/.339/.429 last year with 23 SB. Those numbers would have been better if he could just stay off the DL.

18.01 John Jaso, C, TB

Need catcher. I think Jaso will get more playing time than most other C's as he's slated to be Tampa's DH this season. Kind of projecting something like .360/.400 but I like that he won't be behind the plate. 3 of his 5 MLB seasons he has had OBP's from .372 to .394 and if he can do that again that would be huge.

192

kdl212
ID: 3927222
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 13:59

21.11 Pedro Strop, RP, CHI
If I didn't already have 42 injured guys on my team, I would've picked Markakis, but I needed one more non-injured outfielder. There still seemed a half dozen that looked similar, so I deferred. I only have 4 starting pitchers, but there are so many of them available throughout the year that it didn't seem worth one of my precious remaining draft slots.

So I looked to catcher (someone to play while Wieters gets all better) and reliever. Strop was amongst a big group of relievers with high strikeouts. No special reason to take him over the others.

193

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 18:51

22.06 Alejandro de Aza, OF, BAL
The fourth third begins - filling out my starting spots. Still need a healthy OF (my disgust for Josh Reddick grows) and a catcher. De Aza, Bourn, Stubbs and 2 undrafted guys almost convinced me to wait some more. I'm going to dump one of these outfielders by mid-April anyway. But I got it over with.

I considered emailing other managers and offering Reddick + my 23rd and in exchange for their 22nd and 23rd, but I wasn't sure it would be well received. Anyone want Reddick for a SP?

194

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 19:08

21.09 Balfour, Grant- RP - Tam
Sort of a handcuff for potential interim closer Brad Boxberger. Now I have two of the closer by committee members. Wish I had more to say about Balfour, he had a chance to be a regular full time MLB closer but has never been able to hold on to that for long

22.08 Morales, Kendrys - 1B - KC
One of my favorite parts of a draft is when a missed pick is made. All of a sudden that 'moving up' a slot has everyone picking a bit more quickly, 1 hour between picks becomes 5. I think we did half a round when holt missed the turn, and then a few picks more when holt surfaced before we died down to our normal pace. Anyway, I did not 'move up', but got the backup I wanted nonetheless. Kendrys should see playing time as KC's DH and does have a little pop where he could help with production. It just has to be on days my regulars have an off day or get a day of rest

23.09 Bastardo, Antonio - RP - Pit
Another pseudo handcuff for the Bucs and my closer Melanson. Actually I do not think he'd be the guy looming, but he does have a good K rate as we all pick our interchangable MR

24.08 Wilhelmson, Tom - RP - Sea
Nothing to see here, just another interchangable MR and again I try to pick mine with good K rates as the WHIP boys are gone

195

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 20:49

22.05 Travis Snider, OF, BAL

Snider was once a touted prospect but has never really put it together. He's moving to a more hitter friendly park this year and if he can produce, should get plenty of ABs for the Orioles. He slashed .264/.338/.438 last year and is still only 27, so I am hoping this is his year.

196

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 20:59

23.12 Drew Stubbs, OF, COL

Selected Stubbs for outfield depth as he put up solid numbers over 132 games last year including 20 SB. I'm thinking he will play a similar role again this year and will try to take advantage of his Coors Field starts.

197

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 21:29

23.10 Steven Vogt 1B OAK

Not sure what I'm getting here.

I know I'm getting a player who caught 47 games for Oakland 2 years ago and only 15 last year, splitting time also at 1st and in the OF. I'm getting a player who had an OPS of .920 and hit .350 for the first part of the season before suffering foot and knee injuries, although he continued to play, albeit somewhat hampered, finishing the season with an OPS of .752

I hope I'm getting a player who hopefully regains his catcher eligibility sooner than later, and has an OPS somewhere between his torrid start last year and finishing average. I'm not sure if he becomes a platoon player for the A's, but with the ability to play 1st and in the outfield should get plenty of AB's.

If not he becomes waiver fodder.

198

Dave R
SuperDude
ID: 3010361110
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 21:39

24.07 Josh Collmenter SP ARI

Let's see, opening day starter for D'Backs, won 11 games last year, has a career ERA of 3.42, WHIP of 1.15 over 516 innings. Not known as a strikeout pitcher, but managed nearly 6.5 per 9 innings

Round 24 , why not?

199

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 23:46

23.11 Jason Castro, C, HOU
A necessity since the catcher I already drafted, Wieters, will start the year on the DL. I drafted Castro in the 14th round last year, and he was total garbage. If he's garbage again this year, I'll drop him quickly and won't have wasted a middle-round draft pick on him. Would've been happy if Norris or Montero had lasted until here.

I had told myself I wouldn't draft a second catcher before round 24, and had Buchholz at the top of my queue, but foolishly pulled the trigger on Castro in the 23rd, and missed out on Buchholz (to a guy who had already drafted 6 starting pitchers!). Really mismanaging the last few rounds of this draft.

200

kdl212
ID: 4129915
Sun, Mar 29, 2015, 23:55

24.06 Junichi Tazawa, RP, BOS
Maybe Uehara never gets healthy this year. And maybe Mujica stops getting so inexplicably lucky. And maybe Tazawa takes over the closer role and ends the season with 20 saves. Most probably, none of that happens, and even if it does, I'm unlikely to have tazawa on my roster by the time the third maybe comes to pass.

201

Evan
ID: 101522414
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 08:59

22.12 Matt Garza, SP, MIL

Can he stay healthy for a whole season? At this late point in the draft, I needed arms and I thought he had the most talent.

He has pretty decent numbers and it all comes down to health for him.

202

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 09:20

21.07 Iglesias, Raisel, SP, CIN

Could start the year in the rotation and give me a couple of starts. Pretty much an unknown as to how much or if he can be productive this year. At this point in the draft the likely hood of anyone staying on my roster all year is minimal so I went for a straight out gamble.

22.10 Chen, Wei-Yin, SP, BAL

16 wins and a 3.54 ERA in 2014. Maybe he can do it again?

23.07 Smoak, Justin, 1B, TOR

With Tomas struggling I was looking for some depth at CI. I decided to gamble on two Blue Jays late. I went for Smoak this round even though he has proven to be a below average hitter over his career. He should get most early starts at first against righties and his fly ball tendencies could prove productive in Rogers Centre.

24.10 Valencia, Danny

The 2nd half of my Blue Jay play. Valencia has mashed lefties over his career, 870 OPS. He should get plenty of starts against lefties and provide me some solid part time numbers.

203

Evan
ID: 101522414
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 09:24

23.05 Miguel Montero, C, CHC

Wasn't convinced on my catcher so I picked another catcher. Montero should hit in a good part of the lineup and could be a sleeper.

He has a decent OBP projection of .330 and should be a good source of RBIs.

204

Evan
ID: 101522414
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 09:26

24.12 C.C. Sabathia, SP, NYY

My 7th Yankee... Yikes... I was about to grab Henderson Alvarez but KDogHall made different plans for me.

Man this is a tough one to defend, I just didn't know any other starters I should pick. He hasn't looked good in awhile.

We'll see how this goes but I don't anticipate him being on my roster too long.

205

Evan
ID: 101522414
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 10:12

25.05 Zach Duke, RP, CWS

David Robertson insurance. As simple as that...

He has put up good numbers as a relief pitcher, averaging nearly a strikeout per inning with a relatively low WHIP.

It seems that if D-Rob goes down, Duke would be the guy.

206

Graydog
ID: 2315871
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 10:46

25.07 Loup, Aaron, RP, TOR

Continuing my bizarre trend of trying to own Blue Jays with limited value.... The jays closer Cecil has been experiences shoulder soreness all spring. Loup appears next in line if Cecil needs a break.

207

Dave R
ID: 161562013
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 11:42

25.10 John Jay OF STL

John Jay, why not with pick 25.10 ( or the 394th selection )

It seems like he is fully entrenched as the starting CF for the Cardinals, his possible competition seems relegated to a bench role. Last year he managed an OPS of .750, due mainly to an excellent on base average .372, something sorely lacking on my team.

Rotowire has him projected for over 500 AB's, and last year he even spent September batting leadoff or 2nd. He can run, having stolen 19 bases in 2012.

To quote Rotowire " If Jay can stay healthy and rack up at-bats at the top of the lineup, he could crack 100 runs in 2015 to go along with a solid batting average and OBP.

Wishful thinking, probably, but with the last pick what's to lose. He'll probably be dropped for the best available free agent at some point.

Or, maybe not

208

kdl212
ID: 3927222
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 13:19

25.11 Dan Haren, SP, MIA
Having a TSN Ultimate flashback here, as I look to fill out my squad with a .50 pitcher who isn't going on opening day who I could hold for a couple of weeks and maybe even make some money on. Haren looks to have a decent first 3 starts lined up, and he's traditionally been easy on the WHiP. Who knows, maybe in cavernous Miami, he can have a mini-renaissance.

The better move might have been to gamble on another reliever, but there will be plenty of action on that carousel soon enough.

209

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 13:27

22.14 Edward Mujica, RP, BOS
it is still unclear if Uehara will be ready for the start of the season. looks like he won't. so I grabbed the likely backup in the hope to get some cheap saves early on.

Update: 15min after I picked Mujica it seems that Uehara was declared out for the start of the season. Now I hope that Mujica really gets the call and converts.

Update 2: a few hours later the coach confirmed that Mujica will be the closer while Uehara is out. great!

210

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 13:28

23.03 Danny Farquhar, RP, SEA
I searched for a closer in waiting that strikes out more than a batter per inning. this way he is even valuable as long as he is not the regular closer. The setup man that stood out was Danny Farquhar.
Fernando Rodney isn't the youngest anymore. his last 3 seasons were a major success, but the seasons before were not special (ERA > 4.00, WHIP > 1.50). If he falls back to his old standards he may not stay long as the closer. this is my hope.

211

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 13:32

24.14 Odubel Herrera, OF, PHI
I can use one more outfielder who may see regular usage in my Util slot. It seems that Herrera was good enough to beat out the competition at CF for the Phillies. If this is really the case I get a starting centerfielder really late in the draft. are any other such players available? no. did I know of the existence of the name Odubel 24 hours ago? no. could this turn out as a steal? yes!

212

youngroman
ID: 57047243
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 13:39

25.03 Emilio Bonifacio, SS/OF, CWS
I thought about picking up a starting pitcher, but I decided that I still can pick up the one of the hot ones a few days into the season. no need to guess that player now.
looking through some depth charts Bonifacio is ranked #2 or #3 on any position other than C. this means in case any of these 7 players gets some rest he may be playing. he will likely gain eligibility at more positions than he currently has. I see him as a very poor man's Ben Zobrist. because of that he may be the player out as soon as I want to add that hot new starting pitcher that nobody thought of drafting him, but that has a 0.00 ERA after his first 2 starts.

213

Tosh
Leader
ID: 057721710
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 15:18

21.13 Markakis, Nick, OF, ATL
Last weekend I was away from the computer most of the time. This weekend, it’s pretty much the entire weekend. I left on Saturday morning with about 70 players in a queue. With no way to sort, nor an easy way to keep up on current news ... I feel like I’m throwing blind darts right now.

Markakis has moved to Atlanta, and has a full-time job at the top of the lineup. He’ll score runs, but as he gets older, the power has faded. He’ll be a starting OFer for me until Hunter Pence returns, then he’ll be a utility guy.

22.04 Johnson, Chris, 3B, ATL
I don’t have a backup 3B, and it appears more and more likely that my starting-3B, Anthony Rendon, might not start the season healthy enough to play. So a need to grab a (hopefully) short-time 3B replacement. He was the NL runner-up for the batting title in 2013, but seriously regressed last season. Maybe he can regain a little of that contact rate, and stop striking out 26% of the time.

23.13 Broxton, Jonathan, RP, MIL
He’s merely a handcuff for one of my closers, KRod. He’s had a couple recent seasons as a good closer. Right now, he’s just a pretty decent set-up guy.

24.04 Howard, Ryan, 1B, PHI
How the mighty have fallen. Not that long ago, he was a 2nd round pick in RIBC. Now he’s the 372nd player picked. He still projects to get most of the playing time at 1B for Philly, apparently is in good shape, and will provide some power for my roster.

25.13 Burnett, A.J., SP, PIT
Rotowire currently has him ranked # 297 in their updated rankings. I’ll take him at pick #397, and hope he can maintain a K/9 ratio of around 8.0, and improve on his pitiful 2014 BB/9 ratio of 4.0

214

Uptown Bombers
ID: 81262014
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 16:26

22.13 Evan Marshall RP ARI

I'm hoping for a bullpen implosion in Arizona and for Marshall to emerge as the next closer. The write-ups on him have been positive and the speculation that Reed will be unable to hold the closer position makes this a worthy round 22 gamble.

23.04 David Freese 3B LAA

I'd like a back-up at 3B and while there were a few other names I considered, I decided on the relatively unexciting Freese. I think I know what I'm getting with him and while it's nice to draft for upside, I wasn't terrible convinced any of my other options offered realistic upside. I'll settle for the mediocrity of Freese and hope that i don't have to rely on him too much or that someone on the waiver wire proves to be more appealing.

24.13 Seth Smith OF SEA

As my seventh OF, I view Smith as a plug-in when guys are sitting, on off days, or when the matchup favors him. Smith has much greater splits against righties and so might prove useful in those circumstances.

25.04 Jeurys Familia RP NYM

I have little faith in Mejia, though as a Met fan, I'd like to hope that Mejia never waivers and holds on the position all year. The other name in the pen to consider, Parnell (drafted long ago)is coming back from injury. So if Mejia bombs, and I'd expect a short leash considering the expectations of the Mets to contend for a wild card, and Parnell struggles to recover, I think Familia would be next in line. That's multiple ifs and maybes, but it's round 25.

215

JeffG
ID: 41228917
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 18:33

25.09 Middlebrooks, Will - 3B - SD
Don't really have plan B if my 3B Ari Ram (12.08) falters. Middlebrooks seems to have won the position battle for the Padre third baseman which gives me an option, not a good option, not a great option, but an option.

216

ksoze
Leader
ID: 04619323
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 18:38

21.15 Drew, Stephen - NYY - SS

Filling some back up roles here, he'll cover me at SS and 2B. He had an OPS of .777 as recently as 2013, maybe he can top .700 this year since he's actually agreed to be part of a team before mid-season.

22.02 Leake, Mike - CIN - SP

I put twp SP's in my queue to take as what might be my last SP in the draft, rightly guessing that holt wouldn't take a pair of them on the turn. Buchholz was the other. I think Leake has a bit more potential upside with what will likely be a better WHIP/ERA and more K's.

23.15 Shaw, Bryan - CLE - RP

Guess I might as well take one of the last "2nd in line" closers left, if Allen goes down, apparently Shaw is next. With any luck his ERA and WHIP will help a little and he'll snag a few wins.

24.02 Buchholz, Clay - BOS - SP

The heck with it. I'll take a 7th SP and see what happens, I can always swap one of my last ones into someone else if something better comes along. His BAABIP was way over his norm in 2014, and was pretty good over the last half of the year... maybe he's got more upside than Leake. He's the opening day starter for the Sox, though I'm not sure that's a great selling point.

25.15 Asche, Cody - PHI - 3B

All things being equal with no injuries, 3B is still likely my weakest position at the end of the draft. Unless Chisenhall hits somewhere closer to the first half of 2014, or ARod is better than anyone thinks is reasonable, I'm in trouble there. Not that I'm expecting Asche to make up the difference, but if Chisenhall is 2014 second half Chisenhall, and ARod sucks, Asche and a .700 OPS might be an upgrade. Blah.

217

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 19:25

24.05 Ryan Rua, 1B, TEX

It looks like Rua is starting the year as the Rangers left fielder but is listed as a 1B in ESPN. If he sticks and keeps hitting he will provide more depth for me at CI and OF as soon as he gains OF eligibility. Another guy who's having a good spring, hopefully it carries over.

218

mailedfoot
ID: 531322718
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 19:32

25.12 David Carpenter, RP, NYY

Picked Carpenter to help with Ks and ratios; he figures to be one of the Yankees high leverage relievers, so maybe I can get a few wins from him along the way. If Betances continues to have problems I may even luck into a few saves.

219

filthy
ID: 4157202
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 21:16

20.16 Jordy Mercer, SS, PIT

Started slow but had a decent year last time around. Aside from the slow first half of 2014, Mercer has been a pretty decent hitting MI so far in his career. Job appears safe despite the Kang signing. Last remaining shortstop option from the MI's I had been considering really clinched the Mercer pick for me.

220

filthy
ID: 4157202
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 21:23

21.01 Daniel Norris, SP, TOR

Lot of offense and relief options I should be considering here. Just grabbed an MI. Was looking at Rosario for a backup C, but he's gone. Was looking at Qualls for relief, but he's gone. Plenty of other options out there, as well as outfield options, but even when stretching to pick Aaron Sanchez last pick, I almost stretched to pick up Norris instead. He's still around now, so why not? Nothing but promise surrounding this guy. Last year, I lost 2 starters during the draft, so I'll either deal with my excess SP eventually or leave it to the baseball gods.

221

filthy
ID: 4157202
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 21:33

22.16 Logan Morrison, 1B, SEA

Always had promise, and still not old yet. Missed most of first half last year, but started to hit pretty well once the rust was shaken.

Michael Bourn was also looking nice here, as I really did need another OF for some sweet lineup flexibility, but he was gone. Being pretty set on speed makes Morrison a nice consolation. Could qualify at OF eventually, but I'm not banking on it. Added depth at CI if the Cubs keep Bryant down is a key factor here too. Cron insurance, between Morrison and Cron, my CI spots should survive the early going. Then some nice depth for filling the Util spot once Bryant's in business.

222

filthy
ID: 4157202
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 21:43

23.01 Miguel Castro, RP, TOR

Still looking for a backup at C, 2B, another OF, and some RP depth with 3 picks to go. I'm fine if I fill all of these with free agents, and will likely stream through most of my last picks by summer, no matter how much I like them right now.

Iannetta or Montero or nothing, safe to wait. Giavotella or Infante or nothing, again safe to wait. I'm not seeing much at outfield. Guerrero as a nice Util option maybe. Broxton or Castro both seem like they could slip into some saves at some point though, so they start standing out.

Brewers' closer role seems to be a little jinxed in recent years, so I've been thinking about Broxton for quite a while now as a late pick. But the unknown is so hard to resist. Castro sounds like he's gonna be a gem. Top righty option in the pen, could sneak into some saves even if Cecil kills it. Jays' closer role has been uneasy for ages as well, and I figure this year will see a few passes of the baton too.

223

filthy
ID: 4157202
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 21:46

24.16 Chris Iannetta, C, LAA

Wanted to get 2 more tickets to closer lottery here, but already with 11 pitchers, and no bench bats, that would be dumb. I'll be streaming through options in no time anyway!

Iannetta surviving gives me a backup to Martin. Sounds like Iannetta will play more this year, and his bat is pretty solid, so he'll be good insurance for Martin. Probably even sneak into my Util spot for awhile.

224

filthy
ID: 4157202
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 21:53

25.01 Johnny Giavotella, 2B, LAA

Winning the job so far, with a decent minor league hitting career, and finally out of KC, might not be a bad pickup for MI insurance. Could hit better than my shortstops, and gives the lineup ultimate flexibility. The possible upside put him over Infante in my ranks. If not for Giavotella, I'd have gone for JLamb or RSoriano and forgone the roster flexibility for now. OF & RP depth remaining a work in progress as the picks run out.

225

RJ
ID: 54219222
Mon, Mar 30, 2015, 23:56

22.15 Jonathan Villar, SS, HOU
Saw him as a decent sleeper middle infield option. I was also considering Guerrero here who went a few picks later. Villar posted a 7hr/17sb season in around 300 at bats. I've heard he's also being looked at in the outfield a little bit. Hoping for Villar to be a good utility guy. I'll give him some time to see if anything develops.

23.02 Francisco Cervelli, C, PIT
Now the man in Pittsburgh, Cervelli should be giving me an above average OPS for a catcher. I'm hoping for ~110 games if possible but I was the last manager to take a catcher and don't mind going fishing on the wire if necessary. I did like Cervelli here though there were other options as well. I also contemplated just waiting until the very last pick for catcher but opted to at least secure someone I liked as an option. Granted he's a big injury risk.

24.15 Billy Burns, OF, OAK
Current OAK OFs are injury prone and Burns shows big speed upside. Given some playing time, could be some bargain speed here.

25.02 Colby Rasmus, OF, HOU
I've always kind of rooted for the guy and he's showing good patience this spring with an uncharacteristic 9bb/4k ratio. If he can improve on his OBP even a little he could be a bargain though he is certainly streaky. I think Houston is a good place for him though. Also from a strategic standpoint I wanted to bolster my OF.

226

holt
ID: 12262110
Tue, Mar 31, 2015, 02:48

19.16 Turner, Justin 3B LAD

Hastily through together a queue and ended up with two thirdbasemen on the turn. Ah well. In 288 AB last season Turner went .340 .404 .493. I'd be shocked if he did that again but with the 304th overall pick of the draft, whatever, I'll draft him and see if I can get some use out of him fo a while. Shame he only has 3b eligibility in ESPN right now.

20.01 Plouffe, Trevor 3B MIN

Plouffe had modest numbers of .258 .328 .423 last season but had 80 RBI to go with it. I wanted to draft another pitcher here but was in a hurry and botched my queues. No big deal. Maybe it's for the best.

21.16 Peralta, David OF ARI

I had Peralta for a while last season and he had some nice hot streaks. In six seasons in the minors he went .347 .392 .547. He swipes the occasional base and seems like a very solid bat to me. Makes a lot of contact.

22.01 Norris, Derek C SDG

Just getting another option at catcher to fill in at bats with Jaso. His OPS outlook and playing time seemed to be the best option at C at the time, and I got some good use from him last season while he was mashing.

23.16 Peavy, Jake SP SFO

I needed another SP and Peavy had the best credentials of the bunch. He had a 2.17 ERA & 1.04 whip after joining the Giants last season. Hope he pitches more like that and not like the guy with the 4.72 ERA when he was with the Red Sox. 33 years old, lifetime 3.53 ERA and 1.19 whip. I'll give him a chance.

24.01 Ho Kang, Jung SS PIT

Just a random 24th rd pick. Best hitter in Korea. Unfortunately they aren't as good at baseball as the Cubans. Anyway, he does have power. Hopefully he can get some playing time and get his game together. He does have a cool looking swing and is a shortstop. I don't need any other justification for the 369th pick of the draft.

25.16 400 O'Day, Darren

Tried to find starting pitcher but none of them screamed draft me so I just picked up the best reliever I could scrounge up. 1.70 era & 0.89 whip with 9.6K/9 & 4 saves last season and solid career numbers. Second in line for saves after Britton. Good enough for Mr. Irrelevant. #400 of the draft. G'Day.

227

Evan
ID: 101522414
Tue, Mar 31, 2015, 09:36

10.12 Ryu, Hyun-Jin - LAD - SP

I must have forgotten to do my write-up about this one...

I needed a second starter and selected him without knowing his injury. He will be shut down for (2) weeks and be reevaluated.

If he is healthy, he is an underrated pitcher in fantasy who should provide me with high strikeouts and a low WHIP.

228

beastiemiked
ID: 5911312710
Thu, Apr 02, 2015, 23:00

14.09 Wade Davis, KC, RP
Best setup guy in baseball. If KC struggles there's a chance he gets traded and would most likely be a closer. Even if he goes the whole season with zero saves he's a great ratio guy.

15.08 Wilson Ramos, WAS, C
The Tony Tulowitzki for catchers. He just can't stay healthy. If he ever figures out the health potion he could put up a 25 homerun season.

16.09 Adam Lind, MIL, 1b
The prototypical platoon bat. He's a beast vs righties and a bust vs lefties. I plan on sitting him vs almost all lefties so he should be a very nice asset in OBP and Slg. With thin benches it's harder to draft the platoon guys but at 1b/CI it's not too hard to get pickup a few games from the waiver if I start falling behind in GP at those positions.

17.08, Jose Ramirez, Cle, SS
I love Jose Ramirez. His bb/K rates are nuts for a kid his age. He was a very good hitter in the minors with speed. Even when Lindor is ready I doubt Ramirez will be losing playing time.

229

beastiemiked
ID: 5911312710
Thu, Apr 02, 2015, 23:14

18.09 Jose Fernandez, MIA, SP
I know others were thinking about him. He fell a long time as holding him in a league with short benches and no DL spot can be brutal. I think he's worth the gamble in the 18th round. If he has setbacks I'll obviously drop him as I don't have much invested. If he comebacks by June then he should be putting up better numbers than almost all the setup men being drafted.

19.08 Wade Miley, BOS, SP
His stats say he should be better than his ERA and WHIP were last year. In Boston he should get more wins. I drafted him in every league I'm in as I just feel he could breakout this year.

20.09 Eric Young Jr, OF, ATL
He stole 46 bases in 2013. The Braves will suck so he's going to get playing time. He's a killer in Slg % but he should add enough value to make up for it in runs and SBs if he bats leadoff for the Braves.

21.08 Pat Neshek, RP, HOU
This was a bit of a gamble as I was hoping he'd win the closer battle in Houston. I knew regardless he'd still be someone that should provide good ratios. Houston paid a decent chunk for him so I wouldn't be surprised if he picked up some saves.

22.09 Allen Craig, OF/1b, BOS
How the mighty have fallen. It's crazy how one horrible, rotten, no good season can do to a guys value. Can he recover any of that value he used to have? He was definitely hurting last year but he's always been a bit of a wuss so maybe he never duplicates his early success.

23.08 Yusmeiro Petit, SFO, RP
I was a little surprised he was still out there. He was #2 MVP in the Giants postseason last year. I don't see how the Giants keep him ffrom the rotation this year.

24.09 Scott Van Slyke, LAD, OF
He's the bad part of a platoon. However, he's shown he's a good hitter regardless of who he's ffacing. Unfortunately, he's in the worst spot ppossible for an outfielder. Hoping there are ssome injuries or trades to clear him up a more regular spot.

25.08 Jon Singleton, HOU, 1b
He was optioned to AAA so he'll probably be ddropped. Was just a late flier in the hopes he ccould put up the huge OPS numbers he's shown in the minors.

Forum: basePage 20314Subject: RIBC 2015: Draft Rationale Collection Thread

Forum: base
Page 20314
Subject: RIBC 2015: Draft Rationale Collection Thread